THE 

CONSTITUTION 

/ OF THE 

Presbyterian Church 

IN THE 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 

CONTAINING 

THE CONFESSION OF FAITH, THE CATECHISMS, AND THE 
DIRECTORY FOR THE WORSHIP OF GOD, 

TOGETHER WITH 

THE PLAN OF GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE; 

AS RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE SYNOD OF NEW YORK AND 
PHILADELPHIA IN THE YEAR OF OUR LORD 1788; 

AND AS AMENDED IN THE YEARS 

1805-1888. 



PHILADELPHIA : 

PKESBYTERIAN BOARD OF PUBLICATION 
AND SABBATH-SCHOOL WORK, 

1334 CHESTNUT STREET. 
1891. 



-£> 



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COPYRIGHT, 1888, BY 

THE TRUSTEES OF THE 

PRESBYTERIAN BOARD OF PUBLICATION 
AND SABBATH-SCHOOL WORK. 



ALL BIGHTS RESERVED. 




Westcott & Thomson, 

Stereolypers and Electrotype™, Philada. 



ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 

May 29, 1839. 

Resolved, That the permission heretofore granted by the 
Assembly to publish the Confession of Faith in contravention 
of the copyright, be, and the same is hereby revoked. 

Resolved, That the Presbyterian Board of Publication 
is hereby directed to take the charge, oversight, and agency of 
printing and selling the authorized copy of the Constitution 
of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. 

Resolved, That the standing committees to supervise the pub- 
lication of the Constitution, within the bounds of the several 
Synods, be, and the same are, hereby abolished. 

May 31, 1886. 

Resolved, That the Stated and Permanent Clerks be a commit- 
tee to supervise the publication of any and all editions of the 
Constitution hereafter issued by the Board of Publication, and 
also of the Rules for Judicatories. 



ATTESTATION. 

The Clerks of the General Assembly, as the Permanent Com- 
mittee appointed to supervise all editions of the Constitution, 
having carefully examined this edition, herewith state that the 
text has been carefully compared with those of the editions of 
1789, 1797, 1815, 1821, 1885, and 1888, the edition of 1789 being 
regarded as the Princeps, and also with the texts of the Amend- 
ments as they appear in the Minutes of the General Assembly. 
In their judgment, this edition contains what may be regarded 
as the authoritative text of the Standards of the Presbyterian 
Church in the United States of America. The Proof Texts 
have been carefully compared with those contained in the edi- 
tion of 1797. The Index has been greatly enlarged, and it is 
believed will prove a decided help in consulting the work. 

The committee thankfully acknowledge the faithful, pains- 
taking services and valuable assistance rendered in the prepara- 
tion and publication of this edition by the Rev. Elijah R. 
Craven, D. D., the Secretary of the Presbyterian Board of Pub- 
lication and Sabbath-School Work. 

Wm. H. Roberts. 
Wm. E. Moore. 



HISTORICAL SUMMARY. 



The Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms were 
adopted, in 1729, by the General Synod as "the confession of 
their faith," excepting certain clauses in the Confession relating 
to the Civil Magistrate. 

In 1758 the Synods of New York and Philadelphia united on 
the basis of these Standards. 

In 1788 the General Synod of New York and Philadelphia 
amended the Confession of Faith in chapters xx., xxiii., and 
xxxi., made "a small amendment" of the Larger Catechism, 
and adopted the amended Confession of Faith and the Cate- 
chisms, the Form of Government, the Book of Discipline, and 
the Directory for Worship, " as the Standard of our doctrine, 
government, discipline, and worship." 

In 1792 a committee was appointed "to select and arrange 
the Proof Texts." That committee reported to the Assembly 
of 1794, and their work was referred to another committee, 
with directions to compare the proofs with those annexed to the 
Westminster Confession, Catechisms, and Directory, to revise 
the whole, and to publish an edition of the Standards with the 
proofs annexed. In accordance with that order, and further 
order by the Assembly of 1796, the new book was published in 
1797. 

In 1869 the "two bodies claiming the name and rights of 
the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America," and 
wlych separated in 1837, were reunited " on the doctrinal and 
ecclesiastical basis of our common Standards." 

The only amendment of the Confession of P^aith since 1788 
was effected in 1886-87 by striking out from Chapter xxiv. 
Section 4, the clause forbidding marriage with a deceased wife's 
sister. 

The Book of Discipline was entirely reconstructed and 
adopted in 1884-85. 

The Form of Government and the Directory for Worship 
have been amended in various particulars between the years 
1805 and 1888. 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE 

L CONFESSION OF FAITH 9 

I. Of the Holy Scripture 9 

II. Of God, and of the Holy Trinity 16 

III. Of God's Eternal Decree 20 

IV. Of Creation 25 

V. Of Providence 27 

VI. Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, and of the Punishment 

thereof 32 

VII. Of God's Covenant with Man 35 

VIII. Of Christ the Mediator 39 

IX. Of Free Will 46 

X. Of Effectual Calling 48 

XI. Of Justification 51 

XII. Of Adoption 55 

XIII. Of Sanctification 56 

XIV. Of Saving Faith 58 

XV. Of Eepentance unto Life 60 

XVI. Of Good Works 63 

XVII. Of the Perseverance of the Saints 68 

XVIII. Of the Assurance of Grace and Salvation 71 

XIX. Of the Law of God 74 

XX. Of Christian Liberty, and Liberty of Conscience . 79 

XXI. Of Eeligious Worship and the Sabbath Day .... 82 

XXII. Of Lawful Oaths and Vows 89 

XXIII. Of the Civil Magistrate 92 

XXIV. Of Marriage and Divorce 95 

XXV. Of the Church 97 

5 



6 CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

XXVI. Of the Communion of Saints 100 

XXVII. Of the Sacraments 102 

XXVIII. Of Baptism 105 

XXIX. Of the Lord's Supper 108 

XXX. Of Church Censures 112 

XXXI. Of Synods and Councils 114 

XXXII. Of the State of Man after Death, and of the Ees- 

urrection of the Dead 116 

XXXIII. Of the Last Judgment 118 

II. THE LAEGEE CATECHISM 121 

III. THE SHOETEE CATECHISM 263 

The Ten Commandments 277 

The Lord's Prayer 278 

The Creed 279 



IV. THE FOEM OF GOVEEXMENT 281 

I. Of Government 281 

I. Preliminary Principles 281 

II. Of the Church 284 

III. Of the Officers of the Church 285 

IV. Of Bishops or Pastors 286 

V. Of Euling Elders 287 

VI. Of Deacons 288 

VII. Of Ordinances in a Particular Church 288 

VIII. Of Church Government, and the Several Kinds of 

Judicatories 290 

IX. Of the Church Session 291 

X. Of the Presbytery 293 

XL Of the Synod 297 

XII. Of the General Assembly ....** 299 

XIII. Of Electing and Ordaining Euling Elders and Dea- 

cons 301 

XIV. Of Licensing Candidates or Probationers to Preach 

the Gospel 304 

XV. Of the Election and Ordination of Bishops or Pas- 
tors, and Evangelists 308 



CONTENTS. 7 

PAGE 

XVI. Of Translation, or Removing a Minister from one 

Charge to Another 314 

XVII. Of Resigning a Pastoral Charge 316 

XVIII. Of Missions 317 

XIX. Of Moderators 318 

XX. Of Clerks 319 

XXI. Of Vacant Congregations Assembling for Public 

Worship 319 

XXII. Of Commissioners to the General Assembly . . . 320 

II. Of Discipline . . 322 

I. Of Discipline : its Nature, Ends, and Subjects . . . 322 

II. Of the Parties in Cases of Process * * . 323 

III. Of Charges and Specifications 325 

IV. Of Process : General Rules Pertaining to all Cases . • 325 
V. Special Rules Pertaining to Cases before Sessions . . 329 

VI. General Rules Pertaining to the Trial of a Minister, 

Elder, or Deacon 330 

VII. Of Cases without Process 332 

VIII. Of Evidence 334 

IX. Of the Ways in which a Cause may be Carried from 

a Lower to a Higher Judicatory 336 

1. Of General Review and Control 337 

2. Of References 338 

3. Of Complaints 339 

4. Of Appeals 340 

X. Of Dissents and Protests 343 

XI. Of Jurisdiction in Cases of Dismission 343 

XII. Of Removals, and Limitation of Time , 344 

XIII. Of Judicial Commissions 345 

V. THE DIRECTORY FOR THE WORSHIP OF GOD . 347 

I. Of the Sanctification of the Lord's Day 347 

II. Of the Assembling of the Congregation and their 

Behavior during Divine Service 348 

III. Of the Public Reading of the Holy Scriptures ... 349 

IV. Of the Singing of Psalms 349 

V. Of Public Prayer 350 

VI. Of the Worship of God by Offerings 352 



8 CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

VII. Of the Preaching of the Word 353 

VIII. Of the Administration of Baptism 354 

IX. Of the Administration of the Lord's Supper .... 356 

X. Of the Admission of Persons to Sealing Ordinances . 359 

XI. Of the Mode of Inflicting and Bemoving Censures . 360 

XII. Of the Solemnization of Marriage 363 

XIII. Of the Visitation of the Sick 366 

XIV. Of the Burial of the Dead 367 

XV. Of Fasting, and of the Observation of the Days of 

Thanksgiving 368 

XVI. The Directory for Secret and Family Worship ... 369 

VI. APPENDIX 371 

Geneeal Eules foe Judicatoeies 371 

VII. INDEX 379 



THE 

CONFESSION OF FAITH. 



CHAPTEE I. 

OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURE. 



Although the light of nature, and the works of cre- 
ation and providence, do so far manifest the goodness, 
wisdom, and power of God, as to leave men inexcusable ; a 
yet they are not sufficient to give that knowledge of God, 
and of his will, which is necessary unto salvation ; 6 there- 
fore it pleased the Lord, at sundry times, and in divers 
manners, to reveal himself, and to declare that his will 

a Rom. ii. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, 
do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the 
law, are a law unto themselves; which show the work of the law 
written in their hearts, their conscience also hearing witness, and 
their thoughts the meanwhile accusing, or else excusing one another. 
Rom. i. 19, 20. Because that which may be known of God is manifest 
in them : for God hath showed it unto them. For the invisible things 
of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being under- 
stood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and God- 
head ; so that they are without excuse. Psa. xix. 1-3. The heavens 
declare the glory of God, and the firmament showeth his handiwork. 
Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowl- 
edge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not 
heard. See Rom. i. 32, with Rom. ii. 1. 

6 1 Cor. i. 21. For after that in the wisdom of God, the world by wis- 
dom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to 
save them that believe. 1 Cor. ii. 13, 14. Which things also we speak, 
not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy 
Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the 
natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God; for they are 
foolishness unto him : neither can he know them, because they are 
spiritually discerned. 



10 



CONFESSION OF FAITH. 



[chap. I. 



unto his church ; c and afterwards, for the better preserving 
and propagating of the truth, and for the more sure estab- 
lishment and comfort of the church against the corruption 
of the flesh, and the malice of Satan and of the world, to 
commit the same wholly unto writing : d which maketh 
the Holy Scripture to be most necessary ; e those former 
ways of God's revealing his will unto his people being 
now ceased/ 

II. Under the name of Holy Scripture, or the word of 
God written, are now contained all the books of the Old 
and New Testament, which are these: 



OF THE OLD TESTAMENT. 



Genesis. 


II. Chronicles. 


Daniel. 


Exodus. 


Ezra. 


Hosea. 


Leviticus. 


Nehemiah. 


Joel. 


Numbers. 


Esther. 


Amos. 


Deuteronomy. 


Job. 


Obadiah. 


Joshua. 


Psalms. 


Jonah. 


Judges. 


Proverbs. 


Micah. 


Ruth. 


Ecclesiastes. 


Nahum. 


I. Samuel. 


The Song of Songs. 


Habakkuk. 


II. Samuel. 


Isaiah. 


Zephaniah. 


I. Kings. 


Jeremiah. 


Haggai. 


II. Kings. 


Lamentations. 


Zechariah. 


I. Chronicles. 


Ezekiel. 


Malachi. 



• Heb. i. 1. God, who at sundry times, and in divers manners, spake 
in time past unto the fathers by the prophets— 

d Luke i. 3, 4. It seemed good to me also, having had perfect under- 
standing of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, 
most excellent Theophilus, that thou mightest know the certainty of 
those things wherein thou hast been instructed. Rom. xv. 4. For 
whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learn- 
ing; that we, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, might 
have hope. Isa. viii. 20. To the law and to the testimony : if they 
speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in 
them. Rev. xxii, 18. 

• 2 Tim. iii. 15. And that from a child thou hast known the Holy 
Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through 
faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Pet. i. 19. We have also a more sure 
word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto 
a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day- 
star arise in your hearts. 

/Heb. i. 1, 2. God, who at sundrv times and in divers manners, 



sect, iv.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 



11 



OF THE NEW TESTAMENT. 



The Gospels accord- 
ing to 

Matthew. 

Mark. 

Luke. 

John. 

The Acts of the 
Apostles. 

Paul's Epistles to the 
Romans. 

Corinthians, I. 



Corinthians, II. 

Galatians. 

Ephesians. 

Philippians. 

Colossians. 

Thessalonians, I. 

Thessalonians, II. 

To Timothy, I. 

To Timothy, II. 

To Titus. 

To Philemon. 



The Epistle to the 

Hebrews. 
The Epistle of James. 
The first and second 

Epistles of Peter. 
The first, second and 

third Epistles of 

John. 
The Epistle of Jude. 
The Revelation. 



All which are given by inspiration of God, to be the 
rule of faith and life.^ 

III. The books commonly called Apocrypha, not being 
of divine inspiration, are no part of the canon of the 
Scripture ; and therefore are of no authority in the 
Church of God, nor to be any otherwise approved, or 
made use of, than other human writings. h 

IV. The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it 
ought to be believed and obeyed, dependeth not upon the 
testimony of any man or church, but wholly upon God, 



spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these 
last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of 
all things, by whom also he made the worlds. 

ff Eph. ii. 20. And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and 
prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner-stone. Rev. 
xxii. 18, 19. For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of 
the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, 
God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: 
and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this 
prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and 
out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this 
book. 2 Tim. iii. 16. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and 
is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in 
righteousness. 

* Luke xxiv. 27, 44. And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he 
expounded unto them in all the Scriptures, the things concerning him- 
self. And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto 
you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled which 
were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the 
psalms, concerning me. 2 Pet. i. 21. For the prophecy came not in 
old time by the will of man ; but holy men of God spake as they 
were moved by the Holy Ghost. 



12 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. i. 

(who is truth itself,) the author thereof; and therefore it 
is to be received, because it is the word of God.* 

V. We may be moved and induced by the testimony of 
the church to an high and reverent esteem for the Holy 
Scripture \ 3 and the heavenliness of the matter, the ef- 
ficacy of the doctrine, the majesty of the style, the con- 
sent of all the parts, the scope of the whole, (which is to 
give all glory to God,) the full discovery it makes of the 
only way of man's salvation, the many other incompar- 
able excellencies, and the entire perfection thereof, are 
arguments whereby it doth abundantly evidence itself to 
be the word of God ; yet, notwithstanding, our full per- 
suasion and assurance of the infallible truth, and divine 
authority thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy 
Spirit, bearing witness by and with the word in our 
hearts.* 

VI. The 'whole counsel of God, concerning all things 



*2 Tim. iii. 16. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is 
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in 
righteousness. 1 John v. 9. If we receive the witness of men, the 
witness of God is greater : For this is the witness of God which he 
hath testified of his Son. 1 Thess. ii. 13. For this cause also thank 
we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God, 
which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but, (as 
it is in truth,) the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you 
that believe. 

/I Tim. iii. 15. But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou 
oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church 
of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 

* 1 John ii. 20, 27. But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and 
ye know all things.— But the anointing which ye have received of him 
abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you : but as the 
same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, 
and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. John xvi. 13, 
14. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you 
into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he 
shall hear, that shall he speak ; and he will show you things to come. 
—He shall glorify me : for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it 
unto you.— 1 Cor. ii. 10, 11. But God hath revealed them unto us by 
his Spirit ; for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea the deep things of 
God.— For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of 
man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, 
but the Spirit of God. 



sect, vil] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 13 

necessary for his own glory, man's salvation, faith, and 
life, is either expressly set down in Scripture, or by good 
and necessary consequence may be deduced from Script- 
ure: unto which nothing at any time is to be added, 
whether by new revelations of the Spirit, or traditions 
of men. 1 Nevertheless we acknowledge the inward illu- 
mination of the Spirit of God to be necessary for the sav- 
ing understanding of such things as are revealed in the 
word ; m and that there are some circumstances concerning 
the worship of God, and government of the church, com- 
mon to human actions and societies, which are to be or- 
dered by the light of nature and Christian prudence, 
according to the general rules of the word, which are 
always to be observed. 71 

VII. All things in Scripture are not alike plain in 
themselves, nor alike clear unto all ; ° yet those things 

1 2 Tim. iii. 16, 17. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and 
is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in 
righteousness ; that the man of God may be perfect, throughly fur- 
nished unto all good works.— Gal. i. 8. But though we, or an angel 
from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we 
have preached unto you, let him be accursed.— 2 Thess. ii. 2. That 
ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor 
by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at 
hand. 

m John vi. 45. It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all 
taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath 
learned of the Father, cometh unto me. 1 Cor. ii. 9, 10, 12. But as 
it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered 
into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them 
that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: 
for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea the deep things of God. — Now 
we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is 
of God ; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of 
God. 

n 1 Cor. xi. 13, 14. Judge in yourselves : Is it comely that a woman 
pray unto God uncovered ? Doth not even nature itself teach you, 
that if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him ? 1 Cor. xiv. 26, 
40. How is it then, brethren ? when ye come together, every one of 
you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, 
hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.— Let all 
things be done decently and in order. 

•2 Pet. iii. 16. As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these 
things ; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they 



14 CONFESSION 1 OF FAITH. [chap. i. 

which are necessary to be known, believed, and observed, 
for salvation, are so clearly propounded and opened in 
some place of Scripture or other, that not only the 
learned, but the unlearned, in a due use of the ordinary 
means, may attain unto a sufficient understanding of 
them.* 

VIII. The Old Testament in Hebrew, (which was the 
native language of the people of God of old,) and the 
New Testament in Greek, (which at the time of the writ- 
ing of it was most generally known to the nations,) being 
immediately inspired by God, and by his singular care 
and providence, kept pure in all ages, are therefore 
authentical ; * so as in all controversies of religion the 
church is finally to appeal unto them/ But because 
these original tongues are not known to all the people 
of God who have right unto, and interest in the Script- 
ures, and are commanded, in the fear of God, to read 
and search them,* therefore they are to be translated into 
the vulgar language of every nation unto which they 
come,' that the word of God dwelling plentifully in all, 

that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other Script- 
ures, unto their own destruction. 

p Psa. cxix. 105, 130. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light 
unto my path. The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth 
understanding unto the simple. 

9 Matt. v. 18. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, 
one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be ful- 
filled. 

r Isa. viii. 20. To the law and to the testimony ; if they speak not 
according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Acts 
xv. 15. And to this agree the words of the prophets. John v. 46. 
For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me : for he wrote 
of me. 

• John v. 39. Search the Scriptures ; for in them ye think ye have 
eternal life : and they are they which testify of me. 

n Qor. xiv. 6, 9, 11, 12, 24, 27, 28. Now, brethren, if I come unto you 
speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to 
you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by 
doctrine? — So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to 
be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken ? for ye shall 
speak into the air.— Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, 
I shall be, unto him that speaketh, a barbarian, and he that speaketh 
shall be a barbarian unto me. Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zeal- 



sect, x.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 15 

they may worship him in an acceptable manner," and, 
through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, may 
have hope. v 

IX. The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is 
the Scripture itself; and therefore, when there is a ques- 
tion about the true and full sense of any scripture, (which 
is not manifold, but one,) it may be searched and known 
by other places that speak more clearly. w 

X. The Supreme Judge, by which all controversies of 
religion are to be determined, and all decrees of councils, 
opinions of ancient writers, doctrines of men, and private 
spirits, are to be examined, and in whose sentence we are 
to rest, can be no other but the Holy Spirit speaking in 
the Scripture.* 

ous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the 
church.— But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth 
not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all.— If 
any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most 
by three, and that by course ; and let one interpret. But if there be no 
interpreter, let him keep silence in the church ; and let him speak to 
himself, and to God. 

u Col. iii. 16. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wis- 
dom ; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms, and hymns, 
and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 

»Eom. xv. 4. For whatsoever things were written aforetime were 
written for our learning ; that we, through patience and comfort of 
the Scriptures, might have hope. 

» Acts xv. 15. And to this agree the words of the prophets. John 
v. 46. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me : for he 
wrote of me. 

* Matt. xxii. 29, 31. Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, 
not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.— But as touching 
the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken 
unto you by God? Eph. ii. 20. And are built upon the foundation of 
the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cor- 
ner-stone. Acts xxviii. 25. And when they agreed not among them- 
selves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well 
Bpake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers. 



16 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. ii. 



CHAPTER II. 

OF GOD, AND OF THE HOLY TRINITY. 

There is but one only y living and true God,* who is 
infinite in being and perfection,* a most pure spirit, 6 in- 
visible, 6 without body, parts, d or passions/ immutable/ im- 



v Deut. vi. 4. Hear, O Israel ; the Lord our God is one Lord. 1 Cor. 
viii. 4, 6. As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are 
offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the 
world, and that there is none other God but one.— But to us there is 
but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him ; and 
one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. 

* 1 Thess. i. 9.— Ye turned to God from idols, to serve the living and 
true God. Jer. x. 10.— But the Lord is the true God, he is the living 
God, and an everlasting King. 

° Job xi. 7, 8, 9, and xxvi. 14. Canst thou by searching find out God ? 
Canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection ? It is as high as 
heaven; what canst thou do? deeper than hell; what canst thou 
know? The measure thereof is longer than the earth, and broader 
than the sea. — Lo, these are parts of his ways ; but how little a portion 
is heard of him ! but the thunder of his power, who can understand ? 

b John iv. 24. God is a Spirit : and they that worship him must wor- 
ship him in spirit and in truth. 

«1 Tim. i. 17. Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the 
only wise God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. 

d Deut. iv. 15, 16. Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves, (for 
ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord spake unto 
you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire,) lest ye corrupt yourselves, 
and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the like- 
ness of male or female. Luke xxiv. 39. Behold my hands and my 
feet, that it is I myself: handle me and see ; for a spirit hath not flesh 
and bones, as ye see me have. John iv. 24. 

« Acts xiv. 11, 15. And when the people saw what Paul had done, 
they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods 
are come down to us in the likeness of men.— And saying, Sirs, why 
do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and 
preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the liv- 
ing God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things 
that are therein. 

/James i. 17.— The Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, 
neither shadow of turning. Mai. iii. 6. For I am the Lord, I change 
not. 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 17 

mcnse/ eternal/ incomprehensible,* almighty/ most wise,* 
most holy/ most free,™ most absolute, 71 working all things 
according to the counsel of his own immutable and most 
righteous will, for his own glory ; p most loving, q gracious, 
merciful, long-suffering, abundant in goodness and truth, 
forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin ; r the rewarder 
of them that diligently seek him; s and withal most just 



9 1 Kings viii. 27. But will God indeed dwell on the earth ? Behold, 
the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much 
less this house that I have builded? Jer. xxiii. 23, 24. Am I a God at 
hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off? Can any hide himself 
in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill 
heaven and earth ? saith the Lord. 

h Psa. xc. 2. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou 
hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to ever- 
lasting, thou art God. 1 Tim. i. 17. Now unto the King eternal, im- 
mortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory for ever 
and ever. Amen. 

* Psa. cxlv. 3. — His greatness is unsearchable. 

i Gen. xvii. 1. — I am the Almighty God ; walk before me, and be thou 
perfect. Rev. iv. 8. 

* Rom. xvi. 27. To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for 
ever. Amen. 

1 Isa. vi. 3. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy 
is the Lord of hosts : the whole earth is full of his glory. Rev. iv. 8. 

m Psa. cxv. 3. But our God is in the heavens : he hath done what- 
soever he hath pleased. 

« Ex. iii. 14. And God said unto Moses, I am that i am : and he said, 
Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I am hath sent me 
unto you. 

°Eph. i. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being 
predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things 
after the counsel of his own will. 

p Prov. xvi. 4. The Lord hath made all things for himself: yea, even 
the wicked for the day of evil. Rom. xi. 36. For of him, and through 
him, and to him, are all things : to whom be glory for ever. Amen. 
Rev. iv. 11. 

« 1 John iv. 8. He that loveth not, knoweth not God ; for God is 
love. 

r Ex. xxxiv. 6, 7. And the Lord passed by before him, and pro- 
claimed, The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffer- 
ing, and abundant in goodness and truth ; keeping mercy for thou- 
sands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by 
no means clear the guilty. 

8 Heb. xi. 6. — For he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and 
that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. 

2 



18 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. n. 

and terrible in his judgments,' hating all sin, w and who 
will by no means clear the guilty. 

II. God hath all life,"' glory,* goodness/ blessedness/ in 
and of himself ; and is alone in and unto himself all-suffi- 
cient, not standing in need of any creatures which he hath 
made, a nor deriving any glory from them, 6 but only mani- 
festing his own glory in, by, unto, and upon them : he is 
the alone fountain of all being, of whom, through whom, 
and to whom, are all things ; c and hath most sovereign 
dominion over them, to do by them, for them, or upon 



1 Xeh. ix. 32, 33. Now, therefore, our God, the great, the mighty, and 
the terrible God, who keepest covenant and mercy, let not all the 
trouble seem little before thee, that hath come upon us, on our kings, 
on our princes, and on our priests, and on our prophets, and on our 
fathers, and on all thy people, since the time of the kings of Assyria, 
unto this day. Howbeit, thou art just in all that is brought upon us; 
for thou hast done right, but we have done wickedly. 

u Psa. v. 5, 6. The foolish shall not stand in thy sight : thou hatest 
all workers of iniquity. Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing : 
the Lord will abhor the bloody and deceitful man. 

v Nahum i. 2, 3. God is jealous, .... the Lord revengeth, and is furi- 
ous ; the Lord will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserv- 
eth wrath for his enemies. The Lord is slow to anger, and great in 
power, and will not at all acquit the wicked. See Ex. xxxiv. 7. 

w John v. 26. For as the Father hath life in himself, so hath he 
given to the Son to have life in himself. 

■ Acts vii. 2. And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; 
The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in 
Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran. 

v Psa. cxix. 68. Thou art good, and doest good ; teach me thy 
statutes. 

2 1 Tim. vi. 15. Which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed 
and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. Rom. ix. 
5.— Who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. 

a Acts xvii. 24, 25. God that made the world, and all things therein, 
seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples 
made with hands ; neither is worshiped with men's hands, as though 
he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all 
things. 

6 Job xxii. 2. 3. Can a man be profitable unto God, as he that is wise 
maybe profitable unto himself? Is it any pleasure to the Almighty 
that thou art righteous? or is it gain to him that thou makest thy 
ways perfect? 

c Rom. xi. 36. For of him, and through him, and to him, are all 
things ; to whom be glory for ever. Amen. 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 19 

them, whatsoever himself pleaseth. d In his sight all 
things are open and manifest ; e his knowledge is infinite, 
infallible, and independent upon the creature/ so as noth- 
ing is to him contingent or uncertain/ He is most holy 
in all his counsels, in all his works, and in all his com- 
mands.* To him is due from angels and men, and every 
other creature, whatsoever worship, service, or obedience, 
he is pleased to require of them.* 

III. In the unity of the Godhead there be three persons 
of one substance, power, and eternity ; God the Father, 
God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost.'" The Father is 

d Rev. iv. 11. Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory, and honour, 
and power : for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they 
are, and were created. Dan. iv. 25, 35. The Most High ruleth in the 
kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.— And all the 
inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing : and he doeth ac- 
cording to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants 
of the earth : and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What 
doest thou? See 1 Tim. vi. 15, on the letter ff. 

* Heb. iv. 13. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in 
his sight : but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him 
with whom we have to do. 

/Rom. xi. 33, 34. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and 
knowledge of God ! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways 
past finding out !— For who hath known the mind of the Lord ? or who 
hath been his counsellor? Psa. cxlvii. 5. Great is our Lord, and of 
great power: his understanding is infinite. 

ff Acts xv. 18. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning 
of the world. Ezek. xi. 5. And the Spirit of the Lord fell upon me, 
and said unto me, Speak, Thus saith the Lord, Thus have ye said, O 
house of Israel ; for I know the things that come into your mind, 
every one of them. 

h Psa. cxlv. 17. The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in 
all his works. Rom. vii. 12. Wherefore the law is holy, and the com- 
mandment holy, and just, and good. 

» Rev. v. 12-14. Saying, with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that 
was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and 
honor, and glory, and blessing. And every creature which is in 
heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in 
the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honor, 
and glory, and power be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and 
unto the Lamb for ever and ever. And the four beasts said, Amen. 
And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshiped him that 
iiveth for ever and ever. 

i 1 John v. 7. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the 



20 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. in. 

of none, neither begotten nor proceeding ; the Son is eter- 
nally begotten of the Father ; k the Holy Ghost eternally 
proceeding from the Father and the Son. 1 



CHAPTER III. 

OF GOD'S ETERNAL DECREE, 

God from all eternity did by the most wise and holy 
counsel of his own will, freely and unchangeably ordain 
whatsoever comes to pass : m yet so as thereby neither is 



Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one. 
Matt. iii. 16, 17. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straight- 
way out of the water; and lo, the heavens were opened unto him, 
and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting 
upon him : And lo, a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved 
Son, in whom I am well pleased. Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye therefore 
and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and 
of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 2 Cor. xiii. 14. The grace of the 
Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the 
Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. 

* John i. 14, 18. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us 
(and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the 
Father) full of grace and truth.— No man hath seen God at any time ; 
the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath 
declared him. 

1 John xv. 26. But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send 
unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth 
from the Father, he shall testify of me. Gal. iv. 6. And because ye 
are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, 
crying, Abba, Father. 

m Eph. i. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being 
predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things 
after the counsel of his own will. Rom. xi. 33. O the depth of the 
riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God ! how unsearchable 
are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! Heb. vi. 17 
Wherein God, willing more abundantly to show unto the heirs of 
promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath 
Rom. ix. 15, 18. For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I 
will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have 
compassion. — Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy 
and whom he will he hardeneth. 



sect, ii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 21 

God the author of sin, n nor is violence offered to the will 
of the creatures, nor is the liberty or contingency of sec- 
ond causes taken away, but rather established. 

II. Although God knows whatsoever may or can come 
to pass, upon all supposed conditions;* yet hath he not 
decreed any thing because he foresaw it as future, or as 
that which would come to pass upon such conditions. 9 



" Jam. i. 13, 17. Let no man say, when he is tempted, I am tempted 
of God ; for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he 
any man.— Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and 
cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variable- 
ness, neither shadow of turning. 1 John i. 5. This then is the mes- 
sage which we have heard of him, and declare unto yon, that God is 
light, and in him is no darkness at all. Eccl. vii. 29. 

• Acts ii. 23. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and 
foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have cru- 
cified and slain. Matt. xvii. 12. But I say unto you, that Elias is 
come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him what- 
soever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. 
Acts iv. 27, 28. For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom 
thou hast anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles 
and the people of Israel, were gathered together, for to do whatsoever 
thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. John xix. 
11. Jesus answered, Thou couldst have no power at all against me, 
except it were given thee from above : therefore he that delivered me 
unto thee hath the greater sin. Pro v. xvi. 33. The lot is cast into the 
lap ; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord. Acts xxvii. 23, 
24, compared with v. 34. 

p Acts xv. 18. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning 
of the world. 1 Sam. xxiii. 11, 12. Will the men of Keilah deliver me 
up into his hand? Will Saul come down, as thy servant hath heard? 
O Lord God of Israel, I beseech thee, tell thy servant. And the Lord 
said, He will come down. Then said David, Will the men of Keilah 
deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul ? And the Lord said, 
They will deliver thee up. Matt. xi. 21, 23. Woe unto thee, Chorazin ! 
woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works which were done 
in you had been done in Tyre and Si don, they would have repented 
long ago in sackcloth and ashes. — And thou, Capernaum, which art 
exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell ; for if the mighty 
works which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it 
would have remained until this day. 

9 Rom. ix. 11, 13, 16, 18. For the children being not yet born, neither 
having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to 
election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth ;— As it is 
written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. — So then, it is not 
of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth 



22 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. in. 

III. By the decree of God, for the manifestation of his 
glory, some men and angels r are predestinated unto ever- 
lasting life, and others fore-ordained to everlasting death. 

IV. These angels and men, thus predestinated and fore- 
ordained, are particularly and unchangeably designed ; 
and their number is so certain and definite that it cannot 
be either increased or diminished.' 

V. Those of mankind that are predestinated unto life, 
God, before the foundation of the world was laid, accord- 
ing to his eternal and immutable purpose, and the secret 
counsel and good pleasure of his will, hath chosen in 
Christ, unto everlasting glory , tt out of his mere free grace 

mercy.— Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and 
whom he will he hardeneth. 

r 1 Tim. v. 21. I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, 
and the elect angels. Matt. xxv. 41. Then shall he say also unto 
them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting 
fire, prepared for the devil and his angels. 

» Rom. ix. 22, 23. What if God, willing to show his wrath, and to 
make his power known, endured with much long-suffering the vessels 
of wrath fitted to destruction : and that he might make known the 
riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy which he had afore pre- 
pared unto glory? Eph. i. 5, 6. Having predestinated us unto the 
adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good 
pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein 
he hath made us accepted in the Beloved. Prov. xvi. 4. The Lord 
hath made all things for himself; yea, even the wicked for the day 
of evil. 

t 2 Tim. ii. 19. Nevertheless, the foundation of God standeth sure, 
having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. John xiii. 18. 
I speak not of you all ; I know whom I have chosen. 

u Eph. i. 4, 9, 11. According as he hath chosen us in him, before the 
foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame 
before him in love ;— Having made known unto us the mystery of his 
will, according to his good pleasure, which he hath purposed in him- 
self.— In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predes- 
tinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after 
the counsel of his own will. Rom. viii. 30. Moreover, whom he did 
predestinate, them he also called ; and whom he called, them he also 
justified ; and whom he justified, them he also glorified. 2 Tim. i. 9. 
Who hath saved us, and called us w r ith an holy calling, not according 
to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was 
given us in Christ Jesus before the world began. 1 Thess. v. 9. For 
God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our 
Lord Jesus Christ. 



sect, vi.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 23 

and love, without any foresight of faith or good works, or 
perseverance in either of them, or any other thing in the 
creature, as conditions, or causes moving him thereunto ; r 
and all to the praise of his glorious grace. 10 

VI. As God hath appointed the elect unto glory, so hath 
he, by the eternal and most free purpose of his will, fore- 
ordained all the means thereunto.* Wherefore they who 
are elected being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christy 
are effectually called unto faith in Christ by his Spirit 
working in due season ; are justified, adopted, sanctified, 2 
and kept by his power through faith unto salvation." 
Neither are any other redeemed by Christ, effectually 
called, justified, adopted, sanctified, and saved, but the 
elect only. 6 



• Rom. ix. 11, 13, 16. See letter (*), page 21. Eph. i. 4, 9. See letter 
(•), page 22. 

w Eph. i. 6, 12. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he 
hath made us accepted in the Beloved :— That we should be to the 
praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. 

* Eph. i. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foun- 
dation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before 
him in love. Eph. ii. 10. For we are his workmanship, created in 
Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that 
we should walk in them. 2 Thess. ii. 13. But we are bound to give 
thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because 
God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanc- 
tification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. 

y 1 Thess. v. 9, 10. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to 
obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that 
whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Tit. 
ii. 14. 

2 Rom. viii. 30.— Them he also called. Eph. i. 5.— According to the 
good pleasure of his will. 2 Thess. ii. 13.— Through sanctification of 
the Spirit, and belief of the truth. Rom. viii. 30. 

« 1 Peter i. 5. Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto 
salvation. 

b John xvii. 9. I pray for them : I pray not for the world, but for 
them which thou hast given me ; for they are thine. Rom. viii. 28. 
And we know that all things work together for good to them that 
love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose, etc. [to 
the end of the chapter.] John vi. 64, 65. But there are some of you 
that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were 
that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, There- 
fore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were 



24 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap, in. 

VII. The rest of mankind, God was pleased, according 
to the unsearchable counsel of his own will, whereby he 
extendeth or withholdeth mercy as he pleaseth, for the 
glory of his sovereign power over his creatures, to pass by, 
and to ordain them to dishonor and wrath for their sin, 
to the praise of his glorious justice. 

VIII. The doctrine of this high mystery of predestina- 
tion is to be handled with special prudence and care, d that 
men attending the will of God revealed in his word, and 
yielding obedience thereunto, may, from the certainty of 
their effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal elec- 
tion. 6 So shall this doctrine afford matter of praise, rev- 
given unto him of my Father. See John viii. 47, and x. 26. — 1 John ii. 
19. They went out from us, but they were not of us ; for if they had 
been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us ; but they 
went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of 
us. 

c Matt. xi. 25, 26. At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank 
thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid 
these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto 
babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight. Rom. ix. 
17, 18, 21, 22. For the Scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this 
same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might show my power in 
thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. 
Therefore hath he mercy, etc.— Hath not the potter power over the 
clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honor, and another 
unto dishonor? What if God, willing to show his wrath, and to 
make his power known, endured with much long-suffering the vessels 
of wrath fitted to destruction. 2 Tim. ii. 20.— But in a great house 
there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and 
of earth ; and some to honor, and some to dishonor. Jude 4. For 
there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old or- 
dained to this condemnation ; ungodly men, turning the grace of our 
God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our 
Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Pet. ii. 8— being disobedient; whereunto also 
they were appointed. 

d Rom. ix. 20, and xi. 33. Nay, but, O man, who art thou, that re- 
pliest against God ? shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, 
Why hast thou made me thus? — O the depth of the riches both of the 
wisdom and knowledge of God ! how unsearchable are his judgments, 
and his ways past finding out ! Deut. xxix. 29. The secret things be- 
long unto the Lord our God ; but those things which are revealed be- 
long unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the 
words of this law. 

• 2 Pet. i. 10.— Give diligence to make your calling and election sure ; 
for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall. 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 25 

erence, and admiration of God;' and of humility, dili- 
gence, and abundant consolation, to all that sincerely 
obey the gospel.* 



CHAPTEE IV. 

OF CREATION. 



It pleased God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,* for 
the manifestation of the glory of his eternal power, wis- 
dom, and goodness,* in the beginning, to create, or make of 
nothing, the world, and all things therein, whether visible 
or invisible, in the space of six days, and all very good/ 

/Eph. i. 6. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath 
made us accepted in the Beloved. See Rom. xi. 33, letter (*), page 24. 

s Rom. xi. 5, 6, 20, and viii. 33. Even so, then at this present time 
also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. And if by 
grace, then is it no more of works ; otherwise grace is no more grace. 
But if it be of works, then is it no more grace ; otherwise work is no 
more work.— Well ; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou 
standest by faith. Be not high-minded, but fear. — Who shall lay any 
thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. Luke x. 
20. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject 
unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in 
heaven. 

h Heb. i. 2. Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom 
he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the 
worlds. John i. 2, 3. The same was in the beginning with God. All 
things were made by him ; and without him was not any thing made 
that was made. Job xxvi. 13, and xxxiii. 4. By his Spirit he hath 
garnished the heavens ; his hand hath formed the crooked serpent. — 
The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath 
given me life. 

* Rom. i. 20. For the invisible things of him from the creation of 
the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are 
made, even his eternal power and Godhead ; so that they are without 
excuse. Psa. civ. 24. O Lord, how manifold are thy works ! in wisdom 
hast thou made them all ; the earth is full of thy riches. 

i Gen. 1st chap, throughout. Col. i. 16. For by him were all things 
created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, 
whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers ; 
all things were created by him and for him. 



26 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. iv. 

II. After God had made all other creatures, he created 
man, male and female,* with reasonable and immortal 
souls/ endued with knowledge, righteousness, and true 
holiness, after his own image, m having the law of God 
written in their hearts, 71 and power to fulfil it ; ° and yet 
under a possibility of transgressing, being left to the lib- 
erty of their own will, which was subject unto change. 1 ' 
Beside this law written in their hearts, they received a 
command not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good 
and evil ; which while they kept they were happy in their 
communion with God, 9 and had dominion over the creat- 
ures/ 



* Gen. i. 27. So God created man in his own image, in the image of 
God created he him ; male and female created he them. 

1 Gen. ii. 7. And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, 
and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life ; and man became a 
living soul. Luke xxiii. 43. See also Eccl. xii. 7. Then shall the dust 
return to the earth as it was ; and the spirit shall return to God who 
gave it. And Matt. x. 28. And fear not them which kill the body, but 
are not able to kill the soul ; but rather fear him which is able to de- 
stroy both soul and body in hell. 

m Gen. i. 26. And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our 
likeness. 

» Rom. ii. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do 
by nature the things contained in the law, these having not the law, 
are a law unto themselves : which show the work of the law written 
in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their 
thoughts the mean while accusing, or else excusing one another. 

Eccl. vii. 29. Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man 
upright ; but they have sought out many inventions. 

p Gen. iii. 6. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for 
food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to 
make one wise ; she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave 
also unto her husband with her, and he did eat. See Eccl. vii. 29. 

? Gen. ii. 17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, 
thou shalt not eat of it ; for in the day that thou eatest thereof, thou 
shalt surely die. See Gen. iii. 8-11, 23. 

r Gen. i. 28.— And have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over 
the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the 
earth. See Ps. viii. 6, 7, 8. 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 27 

CHAPTER V. 

OF PROVIDENCE. 

God, the great Creator of all things, doth uphold," 
direct, dispose, and govern all creatures, actions, and 
things/ from the greatest even to the least," by his most 
wise and holy providence/ according to his infallible fore- 
knowledge,™ and the free and immutable counsel of his 
own will, x to the praise of the glory of his wisdom, power, 
justice, goodness and mercy . y 

II. Although, in relation to the foreknowledge, and de- 

• Heb. i. 3. Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express 
image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his 
power, . 

' Dan. iv. 34, 35.— I blessed the Most High, and I praised and hon- 
ored him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting do- 
minion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation. And all 
the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing : and he doeth ac- 
cording to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants 
of the earth ; and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What 
doest thou? Psa. cxxxv. 6. Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did 
he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places. See also 
Acts xvii. 25, 26, 28, and Job xxxviii. xxxix. xl. xli. chapters. 

"Matt. x. 29, 30, 31. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And 
one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But 
the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not, therefore, 
ye are of more value than many sparrows. See also Matt. vi. 26, 30. 

v Prov. xv. 3. The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding 
the evil and the good. 2 Chron. xvi. 9. For the eyes of the Lord run 
to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the 
behalf of them whose heart is perfect towards him. See also Psa. 
cxlv. 17, and civ. 24. 

w Acts xv. 18. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning 
of the world. 

* Eph. i. 11.— Who worketh all things after the counsel of his own 
will. Psa. xxxiii. 11. The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the 
thoughts of his heart to all generations. 

vEph. iii. 10. To the intent that now unto the principalities and 
powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the mani- 
fold wisdom of God. Rom. ix. 17. For the Scripture saith unto Pha- 
raoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might 
show my power in thee, and that my name might be declared through- 
out all the earth. Psa. cxlv. 7. They shall abundantly utter the mem- 
ory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. 



28 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. v. 

cree of God, the first cause, all things come to pass immu- 
tably and infallibly/ yet, by the same providence, he or- 
dereth them to fall out according to the nature of second 
causes, either necessarily, freely or contingently , a 

III. God, in his ordinary providence, maketh use of 
means, 5 yet is free to work without, above/ and against 
them, at his pleasure/ 

* Acts ii. 23. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and 
foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have 
crucified and slain. 

a Gen. viii. 22. While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, 
and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night, shall 
not cease. Jer. xxxi. 35. Thus saith the Lord, which giveth the sun 
for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars 
for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof 
roar ; the Lord of hosts is his name. Ex. xxi. 13. If a man lie not in 
wait, but God deliver him into his hand, then I will appoint thee a 
place whither he shall flee. 1 Kings xxii. 34. And a certain man 
drew a bow at a venture, and smote the king of Israel between the 
joints of the harness: wherefore he said unto the driver of his chariot, 
Turn thine hand, and carry me out of the host; for I am wounded. 
Isa. x. 6, 7. I will send him against an hypocritical nation; and 
against the people of my wrath will I give him a charge, to take the 

spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down. Howbeit, he 

meaneth not so, neither doth his heart think so ; but it is in his heart 
to destroy, and cut off nations not a few. 

b Acts xxvii. 24, 31. Saying, Fear not, Paul ; thou must be brought 
before Caesar : and lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with 
thee.— Paul said to the centurion, and to the soldiers, Except these 
abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved. Isa. lv. 10, 11. For as the rain 
cometh down, and the snow, from heaven, and returneth not thither, 
but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may 
give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater : so shall my word be 
that goeth forth out of my mouth ; it shall not return unto me void, 
but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in 
the thing whereto I sent it. 

c Hos. i. 7. But I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and I 
will save them by the Lord their God, and will not save them by bow, 
nor by sword, nor by battle, by horses, nor by horsemen. 

d Rom. iv. 19, 20, 21. And being not weak in faith, he considered not 
his own body now dead ; when he was about an hundred years old, 
neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb : he staggered not at the 
promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving 
glory to God ; and being fully persuaded that what he had promised, 
he was able also to perform. 

■ 2 Kings vi. 6. And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he 
showed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither. 



sect, iv.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 29 

IV. The almighty power, unsearchable wisdom, and in- 
finite goodness of God, so far manifest themselves in his 
providence, that it extendeth itself even to the first fall, 
and all other sins of angels and men/ and that not by a 
bare permission, but such as hath joined with it a most 
wise and powerful bounding/ and otherwise ordering and 
governing of them, in a manifold dispensation, to his own 
holy ends ; h yet so, as the sinfulness thereof proceedeth 

and the iron did swim. Dan. iii. 27. And the princes, governors, and 
captains, and the king's counselors, being gathered together, saw these 
men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their 
heads singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire 
had passed on them. 

/Rom. xi. 32, 33. For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that 
he might have mercy upon all. O the depth of the riches both of the 
wisdom and knowledge of God ! how unsearchable are his judgments, 
and his ways past finding out ! 2 Sam. xxiv. 1, with 1 Chron. xxi. 1. 
And again the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he 
moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah. 1 
Chron. x. 4, 13, 14. Then said Saul to his armor-bearer, Draw thy 
sword, and thrust me through therewith ; lest these uncircumcised 
come, and abuse me. But his armor-bearer would not, for he was 
sore afraid. So Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.— So Saul died, for 
his transgression which he committed against the Lord, even against 
the word of the Lord which he kept not, and also for asking counsel 
of one that had a familiar spirit to inquire of it ; and inquired not of 
the Lord; therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom unto David 
the son of Jesse. 2 Sam. xvi. 10. And the king said, What have I to 
do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah ? So let him curse, because the Lord 
hath said unto him, Curse David. Who shall then say, Wherefore hast 
thou done so ? See also Acts iv. 27, 28. For of a truth against thy holy 
child Jesus whom thou hast anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, 
with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together, 
for to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to 
be done. 

9 Psa. lxxvi. 10. Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee ; the re- 
mainder of wrath shalt thou restrain. 2 Kings xix. 28. Because thy 
rage against me and thy tumult is come up into mine ears, therefore I 
will put my hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will 
turn thee back by the way by which thou earnest. 

h Gen. 1. 20. But as for you, ye thought evil against me ; but God 
meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much 
people alive. Isa. x. 6, 7, 12. I will send him against an hypocritical 
nation, and against the people of my wrath will I give him a charge, 
to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down like 
the mire of the streets. Howbeit, he meaneth not so, neither doth 
his heart think so, but it is in his heart to destroy and cut oif nations 



30 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. \ 

only from the creature, and not from God; who being 
most holy and righteous, neither is, nor can be the author 
or approver of sin/ 

V. The most wise, righteous, and gracious God doth 
oftentimes leave for a season his own children to manifold 
temptations, and the corruption of their own hearts, to 
chastise them for their former sins, or to discover unto 
them the hidden strength of corruption and deceitfulness 
of their hearts, that they may be humbled;-?' and to raise 
them to a more close and constant dependence for their 
support upon himself, and to make them more watchful 
against all future occasious of sin, and for sundry other 
just and holy ends.* 

not a few.— Wherefore it shall come to pass, that when the Lord hath 
performed his whole work upon Mount Zion, and on Jerusalem, I will 
punish the fruit of the stout heart of the king of Assyria, and the 
glory of his high looks. 

> 1 John ii. 16. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and 
the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is 
of the world. Psa. 1. 21. These things hast thou done, and I kept si- 
lence : thou thoughtest that I was altogether such a one as thyself; 
but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes.— See 
also, James i. 13, 14, 17. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am 
tempted of God : for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempt- 
eth he any man : but every man is tempted, when he is drawn away 
of his own lust, and enticed.— Every good gift and every perfect gift is 
from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom 
is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 

i 2 Chron. xxxii. 25, 26, 31. But Hezekiah rendered not again accord- 
ing to the benefit done unto him ; for his heart was lifted up : there- 
fore there was wrath upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem. Not- 
withstanding Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, 
both he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the 
Lord came not upon them in the days of Hezekiah.— Howbeit, in the 
business of the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, who sent unto 
him to inquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him 
to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart. 

* 2 Cor. xii. 7, 8, 9. And lest I should be exalted above measure 
through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a 
thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should 
be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, 
that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is suffi- 
cient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most 
gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power 
of Christ may rest upon me. Psa. lxxiii. throughout, Psa. lxxvii. 1, 



sect, vi.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 31 

VI. As for those wicked and ungodly men, whom God 
as a righteous judge, for former sins, doth blind and 
harden,* from them he not only withholdeth his grace, 
whereby they might have been enlightened in their un- 
derstandings, and wrought upon in their hearts ; m but 
sometimes also withdraweth the gifts which they had, w 
and exposeth them to such objects as their corruption 
makes occasions of sin ; ° and withal, gives them over to 
their own lusts, the temptations of the world, and the 
power of Satan : p whereby it comes to pass that they 
harden themselves, even under those means which God 
useth for the softening of others.* 

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12. Mark xiv. 66th ver. to the end. John xxi. 15, 
16, 17. 

1 Rom. i. 24, 26, 28, and xi. 7, 8. Wherefore God also gave them up to 
uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their 
own bodies between themselves ;— For this cause God gave them up 
unto vile affections ; for even their women did change the natural use 
into that which is against nature :— And even as they did not like to 
retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate 
mind, to do those things which are not convenient.— What then ? Is- 
rael hath not obtained that which he seeketh for, but the election hath 
obtained it, and the rest were blinded, (According as it is written, God 
hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, 
and ears that they should not hear ;) unto this day. 

m Deut. xxix. 4. Yet the Lord hath not given you an heart to per- 
ceive, and eyes to see, and ears to hear, unto this day. 

n Matt. xiii. 12. But whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken 
away even that he hath. See Matt. xxv. 29. 

2 Kings viii. 12, 13. And Hazael said, Why weepeth my lord? And 
he answered, Because I know the evil that thou wilt do unto the chil- 
dren of Israel : their strongholds wilt thou set on fire, and their young 
men wilt thou slay with the sword, and wilt dash their children, and 
rip up their women with child. And Hazael said, But what, is thy 
servant a dog that he should do this great thing ? And Elisha an- 
swered, The Lord hath showed me that thou shalt be king over 
Syria. 

p Psa. lxxxi. 11, 12. But my people would not hearken to my voice ; 
and Israel would none of me. So I gave them up unto their own 
hearts' lust ; and they walked in their own counsels. 2 Thess. ii. 10, 
11, 12. And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that 
perish ; because they received not the love of the truth ; that they 
might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delu- 
sion, that they should believe a lie ; that they all might be damned, 
who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 

9 Ex. viii. 15, 32. But when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he 



32 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap, vl 

VII. As the providence of God doth, in general, reach 
to all creatures ; so, after a most special manner, it taketh 
care of his church, and disposeth all things to the good 
thereof. r 



CHAPTER VI. 

OF THE FALL OF MAX, OF SIX, AXD OF THE PUNISHMENT 
THEREOF. 

Our first parents, being seduced by the subtilty and 
temptation of Satan, sinned in eating the forbidden fruit.* 
This their sin God was pleased, according to his wise and 
holy counsel, to permit, having purposed to order it to his 
own glory.' 

II. By this sin they fell from their original righteous- 
ness, and communion with God, w and so became dead in 

hardened his heart, and hearkened not unto them ; as the Lord had 
said. And Pharaoh hardened his heart at this time also, neither 
would he let the people go. 2 Cor. ii. 15, 16. For we are unto God a 
sweet savor of Christ in them that are saved, and in them that per- 
ish : to the one we are the savor of death unto death ; and to the 
other, the savor of life unto life. Isa. viii. 14. And he shall be for a 
sanctuary ; but for a stone of stumbling, and for a rock of offence to 
both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants 
of Jerusalem. See also Ex. vii. 3 ; 1 Pet. ii. 7, 8 ; Isa. vi. 9, 10, with Acts 
xxviii. 26, 27. 

r Amos ix. 8, 9. Behold, the eyes of the Lord God are upon the sin- 
ful kingdom, and I will destroy it from off the face of the earth ; sav- 
ing that I will not utterly destroy the house of Jacob, saith the Lord. 
For lo, I will command, and I will sift the house of Israel among all 
nations, like as corn is sifted in a sieve, yet shall not the least grain 
fall upon the earth. Rom. viii. 28. And we know that all things 
work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the 
called according to his purpose. 

• Gen. iii. 13.— And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I 
did eat. 2 Cor. xi. 3. But I fear lest by any means, as the serpent be- 
guiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted 
from the simplicity that is in Christ. 

■ Rom. xi. 32. For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he 
might have mercy upon all. 

« Gen. iii. 7, 8. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they 
knew that they were naked : and they sewed fig leaves together, and 



sect, iv.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 33 

sin,* and wholly defiled in all the faculties and parts of 
soul and body."* 

III. They being the root of all mankind, the guilt of 
this sin was imputed,* and the same death in sin and cor- 
rupted nature conveyed, to all their posterity, descending 
from them by ordinary generations 

IV. From this original corruption, whereby we are ut- 
terly indisposed, disabled, and made opposite to all good,* 

made themselves aprons. And they heard the voice of the Lord God 
walking in the garden in the cool of the day : and Adam and his wife 
hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees 
of the garden. Eccl. vii. 29. Lo, this only have I fonnd, that God 
hath made man upright ; but they have sought out many inventions. 
Rom. iii. 23. For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. 

v Eph. ii. 1. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in tres- 
passes and sins. Rom. v. 12. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered 
into the world, and death by sin ; and so death passed upon all men, 
for that all have sinned. 

w Gen. vi. 5. And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in 
the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart 
was only evil continually. Jer. xvii. 9. The heart is deceitful above 
all things, and desperately wicked ; who can know it ? See also Rom. 
iii. 10, to the 19th ver. 

* Acts xvii. 26. And hath made of one blood all nations of men, for 
to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times, 
before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation. And Gen. ii. 16, 
17, with Rom. v. 12, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 1 Cor. xv. 21, 22, 45, 49. For 
since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the 
dead : for as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 
—And so it is wriiten, The first man Adam was made a living soul : the 
last Adam was made a quickening Spirit.— And as we have borne the 
image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 

v Psa. Ii. 5. Behold, I was shapen in iniquity ; and in sin did my 
mother conceive me. Gen. v. 3. And Adam lived an hundred and 
thirty years, and begat a son in his own likeness, after his image : 
and called his name Seth. Job xiv. 4. Who can bring a clean thing 
out of an unclean? not one. Job xv. 14. What is man, that he should 
be clean ? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be right- 
eous? 

2 Rom. v. 6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time 
Christ died for the ungodly. Rom. viii. 7. Because the carnal mind 
is enmity against God ; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither 
indeed can be. John iii. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh : 
and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Rom. vii. 18. For I 
know that in me, (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing; for to 
will is present with me, but how to perform that which is good I find 
not. 

3 



34 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. vi. 

and wholly inclined to all evil," do proceed all actual 
transgressions. 6 

V. This corruption of nature, during this life, doth re- 
main in those that are regenerated: and although it be 
through Christ pardoned and mortified, yet both itself, 
and all the motions thereof, are truly and properly sin.* 

VI. Every sin, both original and actual, being a trans- 
gression of the righteous law of God, and contrary there- 
unto, 6 doth, in its own nature, bring guilt upon the sin- 
ner/ whereby he is bound over to the wrath of God, g and 

a Gen. viii. 21. And the Lord said, The imagination of man's heart 
is evil from his youth. Rom. iii. 10, 11, 12. As it is written, There is 
none righteous, no, not one : there is none that understandeth, there 
is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they 
are together become unprofitable, there is none that doeth good, no, 
not one. 

b James i. 14, 15. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away 
of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it 
bringeth forth sin ; and sin when it is finished, bringeth forth death. 
Matt. xv. 19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, 
adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. 

c Rom. vii. 14, 17, 18, 23. For we know that the law is spiritual ; but 
I am carnal, sold under sin. — Now, then, it is no more I that do it, but 
sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me, (that is, in my flesh,) 
dwelleth no good thing : for to will is present with me, but how to 
perform that which is good, I find not. But I see another law in my 
members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into 
captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. James iii. 2. For 
in many things we offend all. Prov. xx. 9. Who can say, I have made 
my heart clean, I am pure from my sin? Eccl. vii. 20. For there is 
not a just man upon earth that doeth good and sinneth not. 

d Rom. vii. 5, 7, 8, 25. For when we were in the flesh, the motions 
of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth 
fruit unto death.— What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God for- 
bid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law ; for I had not known 
lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin taking 
occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concu- 
piscence. For without the law sin was dead. — So then with the mind 
I myself serve the law of God ; but with the flesh the law of sin. 

« 1 John iii. 4. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the 
law, for sin is the transgression of the law. 

/Rom. iii. 19. Now we know, that what things soever the law saith, 
it saith to them who are under the law ; that every mouth may be 
stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. 

9 Eph. ii. 3. — And were by nature the children of wrath, even as 
others. 



sect, ii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 35 

curse of the law,* and so made subject to death/ with all 
miseries spiritual/' temporal,* and eternal/ 



CHAPTEE VII. 

OF GOD'S COVENANT WITH MAN. 

The distance between God and the creature is so great, 
that although reasonable creatures do owe obedience unto 
him as their Creator, yet they could never have any frui- 
tion of him, as their blessedness and reward, but by some 
voluntary condescension on God's part, which he hath 
been pleased to express by way of covenant. 771 

II. The first covenant made with man was a covenant 
of works, 71 wherein life was promised to Adam, and in him 



h Gal. iii. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law are under 
the curse : for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in 
all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. 

• Rom. vi. 23. For the wages of sin is death. 

i Eph. iv. 18. Having the understanding darkened, being alienated 
from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because 
of the blindness of their heart. 

k Lam. iii. 39. Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the 
punishment of his sins ? 

1 Matt. xxv. 41. Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, 
Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil 
and his angels. 2 Thess. i. 9. Who shall be punished with everlast- 
ing destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of 
his power. 

m Job ix. 32, 33. For he is not a man as I am, that I should answer 
him, and we should come together in judgment. Neither is there any 
days-man betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both. Psa. 
cxiii. 5, 6. Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high ; 
who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and 
in the earth ! Acts xvii. 24, 25. God that made the world and all 
things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth 
not in temples made with hands ; neither is worshiped with men's 
hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and 
breath, and all things. See also Job xxxv. 7, 8, and Luke xvii. 10. 

» Gal. iii. 12. And the law is not of faith : but, The man that doeth 
them shall live in them. Hosea vi. 7. Gen. ii. 16, 17, 



36 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. vii. 

to his posterity, upon condition of perfect and personal 
obedience. 1 ' 

III. Man, by his fall, having made himself incapable of 
life by that covenant, the Lord was pleased to make a sec- 
ond, 2 commonly called the covenant of grace : wherein he 
freely oflfereth unto sinners life and salvation by Jesus 
Christ, requiring of them faith in him, that they may be 
saved ; T and promising to give unto all those that are 
ordained unto life, his Holy Spirit, to make them will- 
ing and able to believe.* 

IV. This covenant of grace is frequently set forth in 
the Scripture by the name of a testament, in reference to 
the death of Jesus Christ, the testator, and to the ever- 



Rom. x. 5. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the 
law, that the man which doeth those things shall live by them. 

v Gen. ii. 17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, 
thou shalt not eat of it ; for in the day that thou eatest thereof, thou 
shalt surely die. Gal. iii. 10. For as many as are of the works of the 
law, are under the curse ; for it is written, Cursed is every one that 
continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law 
to do them. 

9 Gal. iii. 21.— For if there had been a law given which could have 
given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. Rom. 
viii. 3. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through 
the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and 
for sin, condemned sin in the flesh. Isa. xlii. 6. I the Lord have 
called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep 
thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the 
Gentiles. Gen. iii. 15. 

' Mark xvi. 15, 16. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, 
and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is 
baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 
John iii. 16. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begot- 
ten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have 
everlasting life. 

•Ezek. xxxvi. 26, 27. A new heart also will I give you, and a new 
spirit will I put within you, and I will take away the stony heart out 
of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put 
my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye 
shall keep my judgments and do them. John vi. 37, 44. All that the 
Father giveth me shall come to me ; and him that cometh to me I 
will in no wise cast out.— No man can come to me, except the Father, 
which hath sent me, draw him ; and I will raise him up at the last 
day. 



sect, v.] COXFESSION OF FAITH. 37 

lasting inheritance, with all things belonging to it, there- 
in bequeathed/ 

V. This covenant was differently administered in the 
time of the law, and in the time of the gospel : u under 
the law it was administered by promises, prophecies, sac- 
rifices, circumcision, the paschal lamb, and other types 
and ordinances delivered to the people of the Jews, all 
fore-signifying Christ to come," which were for that time 
sufficient and efficacious, through the operation of the 
Spirit, to instruct and build up the elect in faith in the 
promised Messiah," 7 by whom they had full remission of 



' Heb. ix. 15, 16, 17. And for this cause he is the mediator of the 
new testament, that by means of death for the redemption of the 
transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are 
called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where 
a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testa- 
tor. For a testament is of force after men are dead ; otherwise it is 
of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Heb. vii. 22. By so 
much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. Luke xxii. 20. 
Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testa- 
ment in my blood, which is shed for you. See also 1 Cor. xi. 25. 

u 2 Cor. iii. 6, 7, 8, 9. Who also hath made us able ministers of the 
new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit; for the letter 
killeth, but the spirit giveth life. But if the ministration of death, 
written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of 
Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of 
his countenance ; which glory was to be done away ; how shall not the 
ministration of the spirit be rather glorious ? For if the ministration 
of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of right- 
eousness exceed in glory. 

v Heb. viii. ix. x. chapters. Rom. iv. 11. And he received the sign 
of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had, 
yet being uncircumcised ; that he might be the father of all them that 
believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might 
be imputed unto them also. Col. ii. 11, 12. In whom also ye are cir- 
cumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off 
the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ : buried 
with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him, through the 
faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 1 
Cor. v. 7. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new 
lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed 
for us. Col. ii. 17. Which are a shadow of things to come; but the 
body is of Christ. 

» 1 Cor. x. 1, 2, 3, 4. Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should 
be ignorant, ho'W that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all 



38 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. vu. 

sins, and eternal salvation; and is called the Old Testa- 
ments 

VI. Under the gospel, when Christ the substance was 
exhibited, the ordinances in which this covenant is dis- 
pensed are the preaching of the word, and the admin- 
istration of the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's 
supper ;* which, though fewer in number, and admin- 
istered with more simplicity and less outward glory, yet 

passed through the sea ; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud 
and in the sea; and did all eat the same spiritual meat; and did all 
drink the same spiritual drink ; for they drank of that spiritual Rock 
that followed them; and that Rock was Christ. Heb. xi. 13. These 
all died in faith, not having received the promises ; but having seen 
them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and 
confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. John 
viii. 56. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day ; and he saw it 
and was glad. 

* Gal. iii. 7, 8, 9, 14. Know ye, therefore, that they which are of faith, 
the same are the children of Abraham. And the Scripture, foreseeing 
that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the 
gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. So 
then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.— That 
the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus 
Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. 

v Col. ii. 17. Which are a shadow of things to come ; but the body is 
of Christ. 

* Matt, xxviii. 19, 20. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptiz- 
ing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost ; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have com- 
manded you : and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the 
world. Amen. 1 Cor. xi. 23, 24, 25. For I have received of the Lord, 
that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the same 
night in which he was betrayed, took bread : and, when he had given 
thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat ; this is my body, which is 
broken for you : This do in remembrance of me. After the same man- 
ner, also, he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is 
the New Testament in my blood : this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in 
remembrance of me. 2 Cor. iii. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11. But if the ministration 
of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the 
children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for 
the glory of his countenance ; which glory was to be done away ; how 
shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious ? For if the 
ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministra- 
tion of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made 
glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excel- 
leth. For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that 
which remaineth is glorious. 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 39 

in them it is held forth in more fullness, evidence, and 
spiritual efficacy, to all nations, both Jews and Gentiles ; h 
and is called the New Testament. There are not, there- 
fore, two covenants of grace differing in substance, but 
one and the same under various dispensations."* 



CHAPTER VIII. 

OF CHRIST THE MEDIATOR. 

It pleased God, in his eternal purpose, to choose 
and ordain the Lord Jesus, his only begotten Son, to 
be the Mediator between God and man; 6 the Prophet/ 

«Heb. xii. 22 to 28. See also Jer. xxxi. 33, 34. 

& See letter (*), page 38, and Matt, xxviii. 19. Eph. ii, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19. 
Having abolished in his flesh, the enmity, even the law of command- 
ments contained in ordinances ; for to make in himself of twain one 
new man, so making peace ; and that he might reconcile both unto 
God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby ; and 
came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that 
were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto 
the Father. Now, therefore, ye are no more strangers and foreigners, 
but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God. 

c Luke xxii. 20. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup 
is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you. Heb. viii. 
7, 8, 9. 

d Gal. iii. 14, 16. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the 
Gentiles through Jesus Christ ; that we might receive the promise of 
the Spirit through faith.— Now to Abraham and his seed were the 
promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many ; but as of one, 
And to thy seed, which is Christ. Acts xv. 11. But we believe, that 
through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as 
they. Rom. iii. 30.— Seeing it is one God which shall justify the cir- 
cumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. 

« Isa. xlii. 1. Behold my servant, whom I uphold ; mine elect, in 
whom my soul delighteth : I have put my Spirit upon him ; he shall 
bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. 1 Pet. i. 19, 20.— But with the 
precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without 
spot : who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, 
but was manifest in these last times for you. 1 Tim. ii. 5. For there 
is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ 
Jesus. See also John iii. 16. 

/Acts iii. 22. For Mos°s truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall 



40 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. yiii. 

priest/ and King ; h the head and Saviour of his church ;* 
the heir of all things,-' and judge of the world ; * unto whom 
he did, from all eternity give a people to be his seed/ and 
to be by him in time redeemed, called, justified, sanctified, 
and glorified. m 

II. The Son of God, the second person in the Trinity, 
being very and eternal God, of one substance, and equal 
with the Father, did, when the fullness of time was come, 
take upon him man's nature," with all the essential prop- 

the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me : 
him shall ye hear in all things, whatsoever he shall say unto you. 
Deut. xviii. 15. 

9 Heb. v. 5, 6. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made a high- 
priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to-day have I be- 
gotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for 
ever, after the order of Melchisedec. 

*Psa. ii. 6. Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. Luke 
i. 33. And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever : and of his 
kingdom there shall be no end. 

* Eph. v. 23. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ 
is the head of the church ; and he is the Saviour of the body. 

>" Heb. i. 2. Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom 
he hath appointed heir of all things. 

* Acts xvii. 31. Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he 
will judge the world in righteousness, by that man whom he hath 
ordained : whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he 
hath raised him from the dead. 

1 John xvii. 6. I have manifested thy name unto the men which 
thou gavest me out of the world : thine they were, and thou gavest 
them me; and they have kept thy word. Psa. xxii. 30. A seed shall 
serve him ; it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation. Isa. 
liii. 10. Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him ; he hath put him to 
grief; when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see 
his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall 
prosper in his hand. 

m l Tim. ii. 6. "Who gave himself a ransom for all to be testified in 
due time. Isa. lv. 4, 5. Behold, I have given him for a witness to the 
people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt 
call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee 
shall run unto thee, because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy 
One of Israel ; for he hath glorified thee. 1 Cor. i. 30. But of him are 
ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteous- 
ness, and sanctifieation, and redemption. 

» John i. 1, 14. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was 
with God, and the Word was God.— And the Word was made flesh, and 
dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only be- 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 41 

erties and common infirmities thereof, yet without sin : • 
being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the 
womb of the Virgin Mary, of her substance.* So that 
two whole, perfect, and distinct natures, the Godhead and 
the manhood, were inseparably joined together in one 
person, without conversion, composition, or confusion. q 
Which person is very God and very man, yet one Christ, 
the only Mediator between God and man/ 

III. The Lord Jesus, in his human nature thus united 
to the divine, was sanctified and anointed with the Holy 
Spirit above measure ; s having in him all the treasures of 



gotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. 1 John v. 20. And we 
know that the Son of God is come and hath given us an understand- 
ing, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is 
true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal 
life. Phil. ii. 6. Who, being in the form of God, thought it not rob- 
bery to be equal with God. Gal. iv. 4. But when the fullness of the 
time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under 
the law. 

Heb. ii. 17. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made 
like unto his brethren ; that he might be a merciful and faithful high- 
priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins 
of the people. Heb. iv. 15. For we have not an high priest which 
cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in 
all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 

p Luke i. 27, 31, 35. To a virgin espoused to a man, whose name was 
Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.— 
And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a Son, 
and shalt call his name Jesus. — And the angel answered and said unto 
her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the 
Highest shall overshadow thee ; therefore also that holy thing which 
shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. Gal. iv. 4. See 
letter (*), page 40. 

? Luke i. 35. See letter {p) above. Col. ii. 9. For in him dwelleth 
all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. Rom. ix. 5. Whose are the 
fathers, and of whom, as concerning the flesh, Christ came, who is 
over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. 1 Tim. iii. 16. And without 
controversy, great is the mystery of godliness, God was manifest in 
the flesh. 

r Rom. i. 3, 4. Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was 
made of the seed of David according to the flesh ; and declared to be 
the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the 
resurrection from the dead. 1 Tim. ii. 5. For there is one God, and 
one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. 

* Psa. xlv. 7.— God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of 



42 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. viii. 

wisdom and knowledge;' in whom it pleased the Father 
that all fullness should dwell : M to the end that being holy, 
harmless, undefiled, and full of grace and truth, v he might 
be thoroughly furnished to execute the office of a Mediator 
and Surety.* Which office he took not unto himself, but 
was thereunto called by his Father ; x who put all power 
and judgment into his hand, and gave him commandment 
to execute the same. 3 ' 

IV. This office the Lord Jesus did most willingly under- 
take : z which, that he might discharge, he was made under 
the law,° and did perfectly fulfill it ; h endured most griev- 



gladness above thy fellows. John iii. 34. For he whom God hath 
sent speaketh the words of God : for God giveth not the Spirit by- 
measure unto him. 

* Col. ii. 3. In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowl- 
edge. 

«* Col. i. 19. For it pleased the Father, that in him should all fullness 
dwell. 

* Heb. vii. 26. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, 
harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the 
heavens. John i. 14. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among 
us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the 
Father,) full of grace and truth. 

■ Acts x. 38. How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy 
Ghost, and with power ; who went about doing good, and healing all 
that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. Heb. xii. 24. 
— And to Jesus, the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of 
sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. Heb. vii. 
22. By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. 

* Heb. v. 5. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high- 
priest ; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to-day have I be- 
gotten thee. 

y John v. 22, 27. For the Father judgeth no man ; but hath commit- 
ted all judgment unto the Son ; and hath given him authority to exe- 
cute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. Matt, xxviii. 18. 
And Jesus came, and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto 
me in heaven and in earth. 

* Psa. xl. 7, 8. Then said I, Lo, I come : in the volume of the book 
it is written of me. I delight to do thy will, O my God ; yea, thy law 
is within my heart. Phil. ii. 8. And became obedient unto death, 
even the death of the cross. 

« Gal. iv. 4. But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent 
forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law. 

6 Matt. iii. 15. Thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness. Matt, 
v. 17.— I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. 



sect, iv.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 43 

ous torments immediately in his soul, c and most painful 
sufferings in his body ; d was crucified, and died ; e was 
buried, and remained under the power of death, yet saw 
no corruption/ On the third day he arose from the dead/ 
with the same body in which he suffered ; h with which 
also he ascended into heaven, and there sitteth at the right 
hand of his Father,* making intercession / and shall return 
to judge men and angels, at the end of the world.* 

c Matt. xxvi. 37, 38. And he took with him Peter and the two sons 
of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he 
unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death. Luke 
xxii. 44. And being in an agony, he prayed more earnestly : and his 
sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. 
Matt, xxvii. 46. And about the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud 
voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my 
God, why hast thou forsaken me? 

d Matt. xxvi. and xxvii. chapters. 

* Phil. ii. 8. He humbled himself and became obedient unto death, 
even the death of the cross. 

/Acts ii. 24, 27. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains 
of death : because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.— 
Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer 
thine Holy One to see corruption. Acts xiii. 37. But he, whom God 
raised again, saw no corruption. 

a 1 Cor. xv. 4. That he was buried, and that he rose again the third 
day, according to the Scriptures. 

h John xx. 25, 27. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his 
hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the 
nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.— Then saith 
he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands ; and 
reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side : and be not faith- 
less, but believing. 

* Mark xvi. 19. He was received up into heaven, and sat on the right 
hand of God. 

J Rom. viii. 34. Who is even at the right hand of God, who also 
maketh intercession for us. Heb. vii. 25. Wherefore he is able also 
to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he 
ever liveth to make intercession for them. 

* Rom. xiv. 9, 10. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and re- 
vived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.— For we 
shall all stand before the judgment-seat of Christ. Acts i. 11, and x. 
42. Matt. xiii. 40, 41, 42. As, therefore, the tares are gathered and 
burned in the fire ; so shall it be in the end of this world. The Son 
of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his 
kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; and 
shall cast them into a furnace of fire : there shall be wailing and 
gnashing of teeth.— Jude 6. And the angels which kept not their first 



4-4 COXFESSIOX OF FAITH. [chap. vih. 

V. The Lord Jesus, by his perfect obedience and sacri- 
fice of himself, which he through the eternal Spirit once 
offered up unto God, hath fully satisfied the justice of his 
Father ; l and purchased not only reconciliation, but an 
everlasting inheritance in the kingdom of heaven, for all 
those whom the Father hath given unto him." 1 

VI. Although the work of redemption was not actually 
wrought by Christ till after his incarnation, yet the virtue, 
efficacy, and benefits thereof, were communicated unto the 
elect, in all ages successively from the beginning of the 
world, in and by those promises, types, and sacrifices, 
wherein he was revealed and signified to be the seed of the 
woman which should bruise the serpent's head, and the 
lamb slain from the beginning of the world, being yester- 
day and to-day the same, and for ever. n 

estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting 
chains, under darkness, unto the judgment of the great day. See also 
2 Pet. ii. 4. 

1 Rom. v. 19. For as by one man's disobedience many were made 
sinners: so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 
Heb. ix. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through 
the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your con- 
science from dead works to serve the living God? Rom. iii. 25, 26. 
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his 
blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are 
past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I say, at this time 
his righteousness : that he might be just, and the justifier of him 
which believeth in Jesus. Heb. x. 14. For by one offering he hath 
perfected for ever them that are sanctified. See also Eph. v. 2. 

m Eph. i. 11,14. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, 
being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who worketh all 
things after the counsel of his own will.— Which is the earnest of our 
inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto 
the praise of his glory. John xvii. 2. As thou hast given him power 
over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast 
given him. See also Heb. ix. 12, 15. 

■ Gal. iv. 4, 5. But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent 
forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them 
that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. 
Gen. iii. 15. And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and 
between thy seed and her seed : it shall bruise thy head, and thou 
shalt bruise his heel. Rev. xiii. 8. And all that dwell upon the earth 
shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of 
the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. Heb. xiii. 8. Jesus 
Christ, the same yesterday, and to-day, and for ever 



sect, vni.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 45 

VII. Christ, in the work of mediation, acteth accord- 
ing to both natures ; by each nature doing that which is 
proper to itself: ° yet by reason of the unity of the person, 
that which is proper to one nature, is sometimes in Script- 
ure, attributed to the person denominated by the other 
nature. p 

VIII. To all those for whom Christ hath purchased re- 
demption, he doth certainly and effectually apply and 
communicate the same ; q making intercession for them/ 
and revealing unto them, in and by the word, the myste- 
ries of salvation ; 8 effectually persuading them by his Spirit 
to believe and obey; and governing their hearts by his 
word and Spirit ; * overcoming all their enemies by his al- 
mighty power and wisdom, in such manner and ways as 

1 Pet. iii. 18, For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just 
for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in 
the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit. See also Heb. ix. 14. 

p Acts xx. 28. Feed the church of God, which he hath purchased 
with his own blood. John iii. 13. And no man hath ascended up to 
heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man, 
which is in heaven. 1 John iii. 16. Hereby perceive we the love of 
God, because he laid down his life for us. 

• John vi. 37, 39. All that the Father giveth me, shall come to me ; 
and him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out.— And this is the 
Father's will, which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me 
I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 
John x. 16. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold : them 
also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice. 

"■ 1 John ii. 1. If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, 
Jesus Christ the righteous. Rom. viii. 34. It is Christ that died, yea 
rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who 
also maketh intercession for us. 

• John xv. 15. For all things that I have heard of my Father, I 
have made known unto you. Eph. i. 9. According to his good pleas- 
ure, which he hath purposed in himself. John xvii. 6. I have mani- 
fested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world : 
thine they were, and thou gavest them me ; and they have kept thy 
word. 

• 2 Cor. iv. 13. We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is 
written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken ; we also believe, and 
therefore speak. Rom. viii. 9, 14. But ye are not in the flesh, but in 
the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now, if any 
man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.— For as many as 
are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. See also Rom. 
xv. 18, 19, and John xvii. 17. 



46 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. ix. 

are most consonant to his wonderful and unsearchable dis- 
pensation. 14 



CHAPTER IX. 

OF FREE WILL. 



God hath endued the will of man with that natural lib- 
erty, that it is neither forced, nor by any absolute necessity 
of nature determined to good or evil. v 

II. Man, in his state of innocency, had freedom and 
power to will and to do that which is good and well- 
pleasing to God;" 7 but yet mutably, so that he might fall 
from it. x 

III. Man, by his fall into a state of sin, hath wholly 
lost all ability of will to any spiritual good accompanying 

u Ps. ex. 1. The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, 
until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 1 Cor. xv. 25, 26. For he 
must reign till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy 
that shall be destroyed is death. Mai. iv. 2, 3. But unto you that fear 
my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his 
wings ; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. And 
ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the 
soles of your feet, in the day that I shall do this, saith the Lord of 
hosts. Col. ii. 15. And having spoiled principalities and powers, he 
made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it. 

» James i. 14. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of 
his own lust, and enticed. Deut. xxx. 19. I call heaven and earth to 
record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, 
blessing and cursing : therefore choose life, that both thou and thy 
seed may live. See John v. 40. 

w Eccl. vii. 29. Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man 
upright ; but they have sought out many inventions. Gen. i. 26. And 
God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. 

■ Gen. ii. 16, 17. And the Lord God commanded the man saying, Of 
every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat : but of the tree of the 
knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the day 
that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. Gen. iii. 6. And when 
the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleas- 
ant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of 
the fruit thereof, and did eat ; and gave also unto her husband with 
her, and he did eat. 



sect, iv.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 47 

salvation ; * so as a natural man, being altogether averse 
from that good,' and dead in sin, a is not able, by his own 
strength to convert himself, or to prepare himself there- 
unto. 5 

IV. When God converts a sinner, and translates him 
into the state of grace, he freeth him from his natural 
bondage under sin, c and by his grace alone, enables him 
freely to will and to do that which is spiritually good ; d 
yet so as that, by reason of his remaining corruption, he 
doth not perfectly, nor only, will that which is good, but 
doth also will that which is evil. 6 



v Rom. v. 6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time 
Christ died for the ungodly. Rom. viii. 7. Because the carnal mind 
is enmity against God ; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither 
indeed can be. John xv. 5. For without me ye can do nothing. 

z Rom. iii. 10, 12. As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not 
one : — they are all gone out of the way, they are together become un- 
profitable ; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. 

« Eph. ii. 1, 5. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in tres- 
passes and sins ;— even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us 
together with Christ ; (by grace ye are saved). Col. ii. 13. And you, 
being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he 
quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses. 

b John vi. 44, 65. No man can come to me, except the Father, which 
hath sent me, draw him :— and he said, Therefore said I unto you, that 
no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my 
Father. 1 Cor. ii. 14. But the natural man receiveth not the things 
of the Spirit of God : for they are foolishness unto him, neither can 
he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. See also Eph. 
ii. 2, 3, 4, 5, and Tit. iii. 3, 4, 5. 

■ Col. i. 13. Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and 
hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son. John viii. 34, 36. 
Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever com- 
mitteth sin is the servant of sin.— If the Son therefore shall make you 
free, ye shall be free indeed. 

d Phil. ii. 13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and 
to do of his good pleasure. Rom. vi. 18, 22. Being then made free 
from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.— But now being 
made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit 
unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. 

■ Gal. v. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the spirit, and the spirit 
against the flesh : and these are contrary the one to the other ; so that 
ye cannot do the things that ye would. Rom. vii. 15. For that which 
I do, I allow not : for what I would, that do I not : but what I hate, 
that do I. 



48 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. x. 

V. The will of man is made perfectly and immutably 
free to good alone, in the state of glory only/ 



CHAPTER X. 

OF EFFECTUAL CALLING. 

All those whom God hath predestinated unto life, and 
those only, he is pleased, in his appointed and accepted 
time, effectually to call/ by his word and Spirit/ out of 
that state of sin and death, in which they are by nature, 
to grace and salvation by Jesus Christ;* enlightening 
their minds spiritually and savingly, to understand the 

/Eph. iv. 13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the 
knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man, unto the measure 
of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Jude 24. Now unto him that is 
able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the 
presence of his glory, with exceeding joy. 

i/ Rom. viii. 30. Moreover, whom he did predestinate, them he also 
called; and whom he called, them he also justified; and whom he 
justified, them he also glorified. Rom. xi. 7. What then? Israel 
hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath 
obtained it, and the rest were blinded. Eph. i. 10. That in the dis- 
pensation of the fullness of times, he might gather together in one all 
things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth ; 
even in him. 

h 2 Thess. ii. 13, 14. God hath from the beginning chosen you to sal- 
vation, through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth : 
whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory 
of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Cor. iii. 3, 6. Forasmuch as ye are mani- 
festly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not 
with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God ; not in tables of stone, 
but in fleshly tables of the heart.— Who also hath made us able min- 
isters of the New Testament ; not of the letter, but of the spirit : for 
the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. 

* Rom. viii. 2. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath 
made me free from the law of sin and death. 2 Tim. i. 9, 10. Who 
hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to 
our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was 
given us in Christ Jesus, before the world began ; but is now made 
manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abol- 
ished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through 
the gospel. See also Eph. ii. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. 



sect, ii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 49 

things of God;-* taking away their heart of stone, and 
giving unto them an heart of flesh ; * renewing their wills, 
and by his almighty power determining them to that which 
is good ; l and effectually drawing them to Jesus Christ, 771 
yet so as they come most freely, being made willing by his 
grace. 71 

II. This effectual call is of God's free and special grace 
alone, not from any thing at all foreseen in man, who is 
altogether passive therein, until, being quickened and 
renewed by the Holy Spirit,^ he is thereby enabled to 

i Acts xxvi. 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness 
to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive 
forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified 
by faith that is in me. 1 Cor. ii. 10, 12. But God hath revealed them 
unto us by his Spirit : for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep 
things of God.— Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but 
the Spirit which is of God ; that we might know the things that are 
freely given to us of God. 

* Ezek. xxxvi. 26. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit 
will I put within you ; and I will take away the stony heart out of your 
flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. 

1 Ezek. xi. 19. And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new 
spirit within you. Deut. xxx. 6. And the Lord thy God will circum- 
cise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the Lord thy God 
with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live. See 
also Ezek. xxxvi. 27. 

m John vi. 44, 45. No man can come to me, except the Father, which 
hath sent me, draw him. Every man therefore that hath heard, and 
hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. 

n Cant. i. 4. Draw me, we will run after thee. Psa. ex. 3. Thy peo- 
ple shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness 
from the womb of the morning : thou hast the dew of thy youth. John 
vi. 37. 

2 Tim. i. 9. Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, 
not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and 
grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus, before the world began. 
Tit. iii. 4, 5. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour 
toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have 
done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of re- 
generation, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Rom. ix. 11. For the 
children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, 
that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of 
works, but of him that calleth. See also Eph. ii. 4, 5, 8, 9 

p 1 Cor. ii. 14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the 
Spirit of God : for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know 
them, because they are spiritually discerned. Rom. viii. 7. Because 



50 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap x. 

answer this call, and to embrace the grace offered and 
conveyed in it. g 

III. Elect infants, dying in infancy, are regenerated and 
saved by Christ through the Spirit/ who worketh when, 
and where, and how he pleaseth. 8 So also are all other 
elect persons, who are incapable of being outwardly called 
by the ministry of the word/ 

IV. Others, not elected, although they may be called by 
the ministry of the word, M and may have some common 
operations of the Spirit/ yet they never truly come to 
Christ, and therefore cannot be saved : " much less can 

the carnal mind is enmity against God ; for it is not subject to the law 
of God, neither indeed can be. Eph. ii. 5. Even when we were dead 
in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ; (by grace ye are 
saved.) 

9 John vi. 37. All that the Father giveth me, shall come to me : and 
him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out. Ezek. xxxvi. 27. 
And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my 
statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. John v. 25. 
Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when 
the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God ; and they that hear 
shall live. 

r Luke xviii. 15, 16. And they brought unto him also infants, that 
he would touch them : but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked 
them. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children 
to come unto me, and forbid them not : for of such is the kingdom of 
God. Acts ii. 38, 39. Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be bap- 
tized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission 
of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the prom- 
ise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even 
as many as the Lord our God shall call. 

« John iii. 8. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the 
sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it 
goeth ; so is every one that is born of the Spirit. 

t Acts iv. 12. Neither is there salvation in any other : for there is 
none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must 
be saved. 

«* Matt. xxii. 14. For many are called, but few are chosen. 

» Matt. xiii. 20, 21. But he that received the seed into stony places, 
the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it : 
yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while ; for when 
tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he 
is offended. 

w John vi. 64, 65, 66. But there are some of you that believe not. 
For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, 
and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 51 

men, not professing the Christian religion, be saved in any- 
other way whatsoever, be they never so diligent to frame 
their lives according to the light of nature, and the law of 
that religion they do profess ; x and to assert and maintain 
that they may is very pernicious, and to be detested. y 



CHAPTER XI. 

OF JUSTIFICATION. 



Those whom God effectually calleth, he also freely 
justifieth : z not by infusing righteousness into them, but 
by pardoning their sins, and by accounting and accepting 
their persons as righteous ; not for any thing wrought in 
them, or done by them, but for Christ's sake alone ; not 
by imputing faith itself, the act of believing, or any other 
evangelical obedience to them, as their righteousness : but 
by imputing the obedience and satisfaction of Christ unto 
them, a they receiving and resting on him and his right- 
that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my 
Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked 
no more with him. John viii. 24. I said therefore unto you, that ye 
shall die in your sins ; for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die 
in your sins. 

* Acts iv. 12. Neither is there salvation in any other ; for there is 
none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must 
be saved. John xiv. 6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, 
and the life : no man cometh unto the Father but by me. John xvii. 
3. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true 
God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. 

y 2 John 10, 11. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doc- 
trine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed : 
for he that biddeth him God speed, is partaker of his evil deeds. Gal. 
i. 8. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gos- 
pel unto you, than that which we have preached unto you, let him be 
accursed. 

2 Rom. viii. 30. Whom he called, them he also justified. Rom. iii. 
24. Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that 
is in Christ Jesus. 

a Rom. iv. 5, 6, 7, 8. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on 
him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 



52 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xi. 

eousness by faith; which faith they have not of them- 
selves, it is the gift of God. 6 

II. Faith, thus receiving and resting on Christ and his 
righteousness, is the alone instrument of justification ; c yet 
is it not alone in the person justified, but is ever accompa- 
nied with all other saving graces, and is no dead faith, but 
worketh by love. d 

III. Christ, by his obedience and death, did fully dis- 
charge the debt of all those that are thus justified, and did 
make a proper, real, and full satisfaction to his Father's 
justice in their behalf. 6 Yet, inasmuch as he was given 

Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man unto whom 
God imputeth righteousness without works, saying, Blessed are they 
whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is 
the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 2 Cor. v. 19, 21. To 
wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not 
imputing their trespasses unto them ; and hath committed unto us the 
word of reconciliation. — For he hath made him to be sin for us, who 
knew no sin ; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 
Rom. iii. 22, 24, 25, 27, 28. Tit. iii. 5, 7. Not by works of righteousness 
which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us by the 
washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost ; that, being 
justified by his grace, we should be made heirs, according to the hope 
of eternal life. Eph. i. 7. In whom we have redemption through his 
blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace. 
Jer. xxiii. 6. In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell 
safely ; and this is his name whereby he shall be called, The Lord 
our Righteousness. See also 1 Cor. i. 30, 31, and Rom. v. 17, 18, 19. 

b Phil. iii. 9. And be found in him, not having mine own right- 
eousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of 
Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Acts xiii. 38, 39. 
Eph. ii. 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith ; and that not of 
yourselves : it is the gift of God. 

• John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power 
to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. 
Rom. iii. 28. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith 
without the deeds of the law. Rom. v. 1. Therefore, being justified 
by faith, we have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

d Jam. ii. 17, 22, 26. Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being 
alone.— Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works 
was faith made perfect ? — For as the body without the spirit is dead, 
so faith without works is dead also. Gal. v. 6. For in Jesus Christ 
neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision ; but 
faith which worketh by love. 

« Rom. v. 8, 9, 10, 19. But God commendeth his love toward us, in 
that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, 



sect, iv.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 53 

by the Father for them / and his obedience and satisfac- 
tion accepted in their stead ; 9 and, both, freely, not for any 
thing in them, their justification is only of free grace ; * 
that both the exact justice, and rich grace of God, might 
be glorified in the justification of sinners/ 

IV. God did, from all eternity, decree to justify all the 
elect;-? and Christ did, in the fullness of time, die for their 
sins, and rise again for their justification : * nevertheless 



being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through 
him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by 
the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved 
by his life.— For as by one man's disobedience many were made sin- 
ners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 1 
Tim. ii. 6. Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due 
time. Heb. x. 10, 14. By the which will we are sanctified, through 
the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.— For by one offer- 
ing he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. See also Dan. 
ix. 24, 26, and Isa. liii. 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12. 

/Rom. viii. 32. He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him 
up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 

o 2 Cor. v. 21. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no 
sin ; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Matt. 
iii. 17. And, lo, a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, 
in whom I am well pleased. Eph. v. 2. And walk in love, as Christ 
also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us, an offering and a 
sacrifice to God, for a sweet smelling savor. 

h Rom. iii. 24. Being justified freely by his grace, through the re- 
demption that is in Christ Jesus. Eph. i. 7. In whom we have re- 
demption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the 
riches of his grace. 

» Rom. iii. 26. To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness ; that 
he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 
Eph. ii. 7. That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding 
riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 

3 Gal. iii. 8. And the Scripture foreseeing that God would justify the 
heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, 
saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. 1 Pet. i. 2, 19, 20. Elect 
according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctifi- 
cation of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of 
Jesus Christ. — But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb 
without blemish and without spot: who verily was foreordained be- 
fore the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times 
for you. See Rom. viii. 30. 

k Gal. iv. 4. But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent 
forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law. 1 Tim. ii. 6. 
Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Rom. 



54 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap, xl 

they are not justified, until the Holy Spirit doth, in due 
time, actually apply Christ unto them.* 

Y. God doth continue to forgive the sins of those that 
are justified:" 1 and although they can never fall from the 
state of justification,* 1 yet they may by their sins fall under 
God's fatherly displeasure, and not have the light of his 
countenance restored unto them, until they humble them- 
selves, confess their sins, beg pardon, and renew their faith 
and repentance. 

VI. The justification of believers under the Old Testa- 
ment was, in all these respects, one and the same with the 
justification of believers under the New Testament. 1 ' 

iv. 25. Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for 
our justification. 

' Col. i. 21, 22. And you, that were sometime alienated, and enemies 
in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled, in the 
body of his flesh through death, to present you holy, and unblamable, 
and unreprovable in his sight. See also Gal. ii. 16, and Tit. iii. 4, 5, 
6,7. 

m Matt. vi. 12. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 
1 John i. 9. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us 
our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John ii. 1. If 
any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the 
righteous. 

n Luke xxii. 32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not ; 
and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. John x. 28. 
And I give unto them eternal life ; and they shall never perish, neither 
shall any man pluck them out of my hand.— Heb. x. 14. For by one 
offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. 

Psa. lxxxix. 31, 32, 33. If they break my statutes, and keep not my 
commandments ; then will I visit their transgression with the rod, 
and their iniquity with stripes : nevertheless, my loving-kindness will 
I not utterly take from him, nor suffer my faithfulness to fail. Psa. 
xxxii. 5. I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have 
I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord ; and 
thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Matt. xxvi. 75. And Peter re- 
membered the word of Jesus— and he went out, and wept bitterly. 
See also Psa. Ii. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 1 Cor. xi. 30, 32. 

p Gal. iii. 9, 13, 14. So then they which be of faith are blessed with 
faithful Abraham.— Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the 
law, being made a curse for us : for it is written, Cursed is every one 
that hangeth on a tree : that the blessing of Abraham might come on 
the Gentiles through Jesus Christ ; that we might receive the promise 
of the Spirit through faith. Rom. iv. 22, 23, 24. And therefore it was 
imputed to him for righteousness. Now, it was not written for his 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 55 



CHAPTER XII. 

OF ADOPTION. 

All those that are justified, God vouchsafeth, in and 
for his only Son Jesus Christ, to make partakers of the 
grace of adoption : q by which they are taken into the 
number, and enjoy the liberties and privileges of the 
children of God ; r have his name put upon them ; s re- 
ceive the Spirit of adoption ; t have access to the throne 
of grace with boldness ; u are enabled to cry Abba, Fa- 
ther ; v are pitied,™ protected, x provided for y and chastened 

sake alone, that it was imputed to him ; but for us also, to whom it 
shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord 
from the dead. 

? Eph. i. 5. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children 
by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. 
Gal. iv. 4, 5. God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under 
the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might re- 
ceive the adoption of sons. 

r Rom. viii. 17. And if children, then heirs ; heirs of God, and joint 
heirs with Christ. John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them 
gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe 
on his name. 

8 Jer. xiv. 9. Yet thou, O Lord, art in the midst of us, and we are 
called by thy name ; leave us not. Rev. iii. 12. Him that overcometh, 
will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more 
out : and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name 
of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down 
out of heaven from my God ; and I will write upon him my new 
name. 

* Rom. viii. 15. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again 
to fear ; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, 
Abba, Father. 

u Eph. iii. 12. In whom we have boldness and access with confi- 
dence by the faith of him. Rom. v. 2. 

» Gal. iv. 6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit 
of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. 

w Psa. ciii. 13. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord 
pitieth them that fear him. 

* Prov. xiv. 26. In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence ; and his 
children shall have a place of refuge. 

v Matt. vi. 30, 32. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, 
which to-day is, and to-morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not 
much more clothe you, O ye of little faith ?— For your heavenly Father 



56 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap.xiii. 

by him as by a father ; *yet never cast off, a but sealed to 
the day of redemption, 5 and inherit the promises, 6 as 
heirs of everlasting salvation.* 2 



CHAPTER XIII. 

OF SANCTIFICATION. 

They who are effectually called and regenerated, hav- 
ing a new heart and a new spirit created in them, are fur- 
ther sanctified, really and personally, through the virtue 
of Christ's death and resurrection/ by his word and Spirit 
dwelling in them: / the dominion of the whole body of 



knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 1 Pet. v. 7. Casting 
all your care upon him ; for he careth for you. 

* Heb. xii. 6. For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourg- 
eth every son whom he receiveth. 

° Lam. iii. 31. For the Lord will not cast off for ever. 

b Eph. iv. 30. Whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 

• Heb. vi. 12. That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who 
through faith and patience inherit the promises. 

d 1 Pet. i. 4. To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and 
that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. Heb. i. 14. Are 
they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who 
shall be heirs of salvation? 

« 1 Cor. vi. 11. And such were some of you : but ye are washed, but 
ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, 
and by the Spirit of our God. Acts xx. 32. And now, brethren, I 
commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to 
build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which 
are sanctified. Phil. iii. 10. That I may know him, and the power of 
his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made con- 
formable unto his death. Rom. vi. 5, 6. For if we have been planted 
together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness 
of his resurrection : knowing this, that our old man is crucified with 
him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we 
should not serve sin. 

/ Eph. v. 26. That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the wash- 
ing of water by the word. 2 Thess. ii. 13. But we are bound to give 
thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord becar.se 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 57 

sin is destroyed/ and the several lusts thereof are more 
and more weakened and mortified ; h and they more and 
more quickened and strengthened, in all saving graces/ to 
the practice of true holiness, without which no man shall 
see the Lord.'*' 

II. This sanctification is throughout in the whole man/ 
yet imperfect in this life: there abideth still some rem- 
nants of corruption in every part/ whence ariseth a con- 
tinual and irreconcilable war, the flesh lusting against the 
Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh. m 

III. In which war, although the remaining corruption 
for a time may much prevail, 71 yet, through the continual 
supply of strength from the sanctifying Spirit of Christ, 

God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanc- 
tification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. 

9 Rom. vi. 6, 14. Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with 
him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we 
should not serve sin.— For sin shall not have dominion over you : for 
ye are not under the law, but under grace. 

h Gal. v. 24. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh, with 
the affections and lusts. Rom. viii. 13. For if ye live after the flesh, 
ye shall die : but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the 
body, ye shall live. 

* Col. i. 11. Strengthened with all might according to his glorious 
power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness. Eph. iii. 
16. That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to 
be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. 

i 2 Cor. vii. 1. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let 
us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfect- 
ing holiness in the fear of God. Heb. xii. 14. Follow peace with all 
men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. 

* 1 Thess. v. 23. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly : 
and I pray God your whole spirit, and soul, and body be preserved 
blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

1 1 John i. 10. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a 
liar, and his word is not in us. Phil. iii. 12. Not as though I had al- 
ready attained, either were already perfect; but I follow after, if that 
I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 
See also Rom. vii. 18, 23. 

m Gal. v. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit 
against the flesh : and these are contrary the one to the other ; so that 
ye cannot do the things that ye would. 

n Rom. vii. 23. But I see another law in my members warring 
against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the 
law of sin which is in my members. 



58 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xiv. 

the regenerate part doth overcome : ° and so the saints 
grow in grace/' perfecting holiness in the fear of God.* 



CHAPTER XIV. 

OF SAVING FAITH. 



The grace of faith, whereby the elect are enabled to 
believe to the saving of their souls, r is the work of the 
Spirit of Christ in their hearts ; * and is ordinarily wrought 
by the ministry of the word : t by which also, and by the 
administration of the sacraments, and prayer, it is in- 
creased and strengthened." 

Rom. vi. 14. For sin shall not have dominion over you : for ye are 
not under the law, but under grace. 1 John v. 4. For whatsoever is 
born of God, overcometh the world : and this is the victory that over- 
cometh the world, even our faith. Eph. iv. 16. From whom the whole 
body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint 
supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every 
part, maketh increase of the body, unto the edifying of itself in love. 

p 2 Pet. iii. 18. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord 
and Saviour Jesus Christ. 2 Cor. iii. 18. But we all, with open face 
beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the 
same image, from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 

? 2 Cor. vii. 1. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let 
us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfect- 
ing holiness in the fear of God. 

r Heb. x. 39. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition ; 
but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. 

* 2 Cor. iv. 13. We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is 
written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken ; we also believe, and 
therefore speak. Eph. ii. 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith : 
and that not of yourselves : it is the gift of God. 

t Rom. x. 14, 17. How shall they believe in him of whom they have 
not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?— So then, 
faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. 

u 1 Pet. ii. 2. As new-born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, 
that ye may grow thereby. Luke xvii. 5. And the apostles said unto 
the Lord, Increase our faith. Rom. i. 16, 17. For I am not ashamed 
of the gospel of Christ : for it is the power of God unto salvation to 
every one that believeth : to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For 
therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith : as it 
is written, The just shall live by faith. See also Acts xx. 32. 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 59 

II. By this faith, a Christian believeth to be true, what- 
soever is revealed in the word, for the authority of God 
himself speaking therein : v and acteth differently, upon 
that which each particular passage thereof containeth ; 
yielding obedience to the commands,"' trembling at the 
threatenings, x and embracing the promises of God for this 
life, and that which is to come. y But the principal acts 
of saving faith are, accepting, receiving, and resting upon 
Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal 
life, by virtue of the covenant of grace/ 

III. This faith is different in degrees, weak or strong ; a 

v 1 Thess. ii. 13. For this cause also thank we God, without ceasing, 
because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye 
received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of 
God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. 1 John v. 10. 
He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he 
that believeth not God hath made him a liar ; because he believeth 
not the record that God gave of his Son. Acts xxiv. 14. Believing all 
things which are written in the law and in the prophets. 

w Rom. xvi. 26. But now is made manifest, and by the Scriptures of 
the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, 
made known to all nations for the obedience of faith. 

* Isa. lxvi. 2. To this man will I look, even to him that is poor, and 
of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word. 

v Heb. xi. 13. These all died in faith, not having received the prom- 
ises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and 
embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims 
on the earth. 1 Tim. iv. 8. But godliness is profitable unto all things, 
having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. 

2 John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power 
to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. 
Acts xvi. 31. And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and 
thou shalt be saved, and thy house. Gal. ii. 20. I am crucified with 
Christ; nevertheless, I live ; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me : and the 
life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, 
who loved me, and gave himself for me. Acts xv. 11. But we believe 
that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall be saved, 
even as they. 

a Heb. v. 13, 14. For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the 
word of righteousness ; for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth 
to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have 
their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Rom. iv. 19, 20. 
And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now 
dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the dead- 
ness of Sarah's womb. He staggered not at the promise of God 
through unbelief ; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. Matt. 



60 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xv. 

may be often and many ways assailed and weakened, but 
gets the victory ; 6 growing up in many to the attainment 
of a full assurance through Christ, who is both the author 
and finisher of our faith. d 



CHAPTER XV. 

OF REPENTANCE UNTO LIFE. 

Repentance unto life is an evangelical grace, 6 the doc- 
trine whereof is to be preached by every minister of the 
gospel, as well as that of faith in Christy 

II. By it a sinner, out of the sight and sense, not only 

vi. 30. Shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Matt, 
viii. 10. When Jesus heard it, he marveled, and said to them that 
followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, 
not in Israel. 

b Luke xxii. 31, 32. And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Sa- 
tan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat : but I 
have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not : and when thou art con- 
verted, strengthen thy brethren. Eph. vi. 16. Above all, taking the 
shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts 
of the wicked. 1 John v. 4, 5. For whatsoever is born of God, over- 
cometh the world : and this is the victory that overcometh the world, 
even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that be- 
lieveth that Jesus is the Son of God ? 

c Heb. vi. 11, 12. And we desire that every one of you do show the 
same diligence, to the full assurance of hope unto the end : that ye be 
not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience 
inherit the promises. Heb. x. 22. Let us draw near with a true heart, 
in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil 
conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. 

d Heb. xii. 2. Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our 
faith. 

« Acts xi. 18. When they heard these things, they held their peace, 
and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted 
repentance unto life. See also Zech. xii. 10. 

/ Luke xxiv. 47. And that repentance and remission of sins should 
be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 
Mark i. 15. And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God 
is at hand : repent ye, and believe the gospel. Acts xx. 21. Testifying 
both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and 
faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 61 

of the danger, but also of the filthiness and odiousness of 
his sins, as contrary to the holy nature and righteous law 
of God, and upon the apprehension of his mercy in Christ 
to such as are penitent, so grieves for, and hates his sins, 
as to turn from them all unto God/ purposing and en- 
deavoring to walk with him in all the ways of his com- 
mandments.* 

III. Although repentance be not to be rested in as any 
satisfaction for sin, or any cause of the pardon thereof/ 
which is the act of God's free grace in Christ;^ yet is it 

ff Ezek. xviii. 30, 31. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your trans- 
gressions ; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Cast away frorn you all 
your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed ; and make you a 
new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? 
Ezek. xxxvi. 31. Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and 
your doings that were not good, and shall loathe yourselves in your 
own sight, for your iniquities, and for your abominations. Psa. li. 4. 
Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight ; 
that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when 
thou judgest. Jer. xxxi. 18, 19. I have surely heard Ephraim be- 
moaning himself thus : Thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised, 
as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke : turn thou me, and I shall be 
turned ; for thou art the Lord my God. Surely after that I was turned, 
I repented ; and after that I was instructed, I smote upon my thigh : I 
was ashamed, yea, even confounded, because I did bear the reproach 
of my youth. 2 Cor. vii. 11. For behold this self-same thing, that ye 
sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, 
what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, 
yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge ! In all 
things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. See 
also Joel ii. 12, 13. Amos v. 15, and Psa. cxix. 128. 

h Psa. cxix. 6, 59, 106. Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have re- 
spect unto all thy commandments.— I thought on my ways and turned 
my feet unto thy testimonies.— I have sworn and I will perform it, that 
I will keep thy righteous judgments. Luke i. 6. And they were both 
righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordi- 
nances of the Lord blameless. See also 2 Kings xxiii. 25. 

■ Ezek. xxxvi. 31, 32. Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, 
and your doings that were not good, and shall loathe yourselves in 
your own sight, for your iniquities, and for your abominations. Not 
for your sakes do I this, saith the Lord God, be it known unto you : be 
ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of Israel. Ezek. 
xvi. 63. That thou mayest remember, and be confounded, and never 
open thy mouth any more because of thy shame, when I am pacified 
toward thee for all that thou hast done, saith the Lord God. 

i Hos. xiv. 2, 4. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord : say unto 



62 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xv. 

of such necessity to all sinners, that none may expect par- 
don without it.* 

IV. As there is no sin so small but it deserves damna- 
tion ; l so there is no sin so great, that it can bring damna- 
tion upon those who truly repent.™ 

V. Men ought not to content themselves with a general 
repentance, but it is every man's duty to endeavor to re- 
pent of his particular sins, particularly. 71 

VI. As every man is bound to make private confession 
of his sins to God, praying for the pardon thereof ; ° upon 
which, and the forsaking of them, he shall find mercy: 1 * 

him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously : so will we 
render the calves of our lips.— I will heal their backslidiug, I will 
love them freely : for mine anger is turned away from him. Rom. iii. 
24. Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is 
in Christ Jesus. Eph. i. 7. 

* Luke xiii. 3, 5. I tell you, Nay ; but, except ye repent, ye shall all 
likewise perish. See also Acts xvii. 30. 

1 Rom. vi. 23. For the wages of sin is death. Matt. xii. 36. But I 
say unto you. that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall 
give account thereof in the day of judgment. 

m Isa. lv. 7. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous 
man his thoughts : and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have 
mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. 
Rom. viii. 1. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which 
are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Isa. 
i. 18. Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord : though 
your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow ; though they 
be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. 

n Psa. xix. 13. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins ; 
let them not have dominion over me : then shall I be upright, and I 
shall be innocent from the great transgression. Luke xix. 8. And 
Zaccheus stood, and said unto the Lord, Behold, Lord, the half of my 
goods I give to the poor ; and if I have taken any thing from any man 
by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. 1 Tim. i. 13, 15. Who was 
before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious : but I obtained 
mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.— This is a faithful say- 
ing and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the 
world to save sinners ; of whom I am chief. 

Psa, xxxii. 5, 6. I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine in- 
iquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto 
the Lord ; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. For this 
shall every one that is godly, pray unto thee in a time when thou may- 
est be found : surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come 
nigh unto him. See also Psa. li. 4, 5, 7, 9, 14. 

p Prov. xxviii. 13. He that covereth his sins shall not prosper : but 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 63 

so he that scandalizeth his brother, or the church of Christ, 
ought to be willing, by a private or public confession and 
sorrow for his sin, to declare his repentance to those that 
are offended ; q who are thereupon to be reconciled to him, 
and in love to receive him/ 



CHAPTEE XVI. 

OF GOOD WORKS. 



Good works are only such as God hath commanded in 
his holy word,* and not such as, without the warrant there- 
of, are devised by men out of blind zeal, or upon any pre- 
tence of good intention.* 

whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. 1 John i. 9. 
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins. 

9 James v. 16. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for 
another, that ye may he healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a 
righteous man availeth much. Luke xvii. 3, 4. Take heed to your- 
selves : if thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him ; and if he 
repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee seven times in 
a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent ; 
thou shalt forgive him. Josh. vii. 19. And Joshua said unto Achan, 
My son, give, I pray thee, glory to the Lord God of Israel, and make 
confession unto him ; and tell me now what thou hast done ; hide it 
not from me. Psa. li. throughout. 

r 2 Cor. ii. 8. Wherefore I beseech you, that ye would confirm your 
love toward him. See Gal. vi. 1, 2. 

• Micah vi. 8. He hath showed thee, man, what is good ; and what 
doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and 
to walk humbly with thy God? Rom. xii. 2. And be not conformed 
to this world ; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, 
that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will 
of God. Heb. xiii. 21. Make you perfect in every good work to do his 
will. 

* Matt. xv. 9. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines 
the commandments of men. Isa. xxix. 13. Wherefore the Lord said. 
Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with 
their lips do honor me, but have removed their heart far from me, and 
their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men. John xvi. 2. 
They shall put you out of the synagogues : yea, the time cometh, that 
whosoever killeth you, will think that he doeth God service. See 1 
Sam. xv. 21, 22, 23. 



64 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xvi. 

II. These good works, done in obedience to God's com- 
mandments, are the fruits and evidences of a true and 
lively faith : u and by them believers manifest their thank- 
fulness,* strengthen their assurance,™ edify their brethren, 1 
adorn the profession of the gospel,^ stop the mouths of the 
adversaries,* and glorify God, a whose workmanship they 
are, created in Christ Jesus thereunto ; b that, having their 
fruit unto holiness, they may have the end, eternal life. c 

III. Their ability to do good works is not at all of them- 

» James ii. 18, 22. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have 
works : show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee 
my faith by my works.— Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, 
and by works was faith made perfect ? 

v Psa. cxvi. 12, 13. What shall I render unto the Lord for all his 
benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon 
the name of the Lord. 1 Pet. ii. 9. But ye are a chosen generation, a 
royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should 
show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness 
into his marvelous light. 

»1 John ii. 3, 5. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we 
keep his commandments. — But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily 
is the love of God perfected : hereby know we that we are in him. 2 
Pet. i. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. 

* 2 Cor. ix. 2. For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which 
I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year 
ago ; and your zeal hath provoked very many. Matt. v. 16. Let your 
light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and 
glorify your Father which is in heaven. 

y Tit. ii. 5. To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient 
to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. 1 
Tim. vi. 1. Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their 
own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and his doc- 
trine be not blasphemed. See also Tit. ii. 9, 10, 11, 12. 

* 1 Pet. ii. 15. For so is the will of God, that with well-doing ye may 
put to silence the ignorance of foolish men. 

° 1 Pet. ii. 12. Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles ; 
that, whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may, by your 
good works which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visita- 
tion. Phil. i. 11. Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which 
are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. John xv. 8. 
Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit. 

b Eph. ii. 10. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus 
unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should 
walk in them. 

c Rom. vi. 22. But now, being made free from sin, and become ser- 
vants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting 
life. 



sect, v.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 65 

selves, but wholly from the Spirit of Christ.* 2 And that 
they may be enabled thereunto, besides the graces they 
have already received, there is required an actual influ- 
ence of the same Holy Spirit to work in them to w 7 ill and 
to do of his good pleasure : e yet are they not hereupon to 
grow negligent, as if they were not bound to perform any 
duty unless upon a special motion of the Spirit ; but they 
ought to be diligent in stirring up the grace of God that 
is in them/ 

IV. They, who in their obedience, attain to the greatest 
height w 7 hich is possible in this life, are so far from being 
able to supererogate and to do more than God requires, 
that they fall short of much which in duty they are bound 
to do.* 

V. We cannot, by our best works, merit pardon of sin, 
or eternal life, at the hand of God, by reason of the great 

d John xv. 5, 6. I am the vine, ye are the branches : he that abideth 
in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth mnch fruit : for without 
me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a 
branch, and is withered ; and men gather them, and cast them into 
the fire. See Ezek. xxxvi. 26, 27. 

e Phil. ii. 13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and 
to do of his good pleasure. Phil. iv. 13. I can do all things through 
Christ which strengtheneth me. 2 Cor. iii. 5. Not that we are suf- 
ficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves ; but our suf- 
ficiency is of God. 

/Phil. ii. 12. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not 
as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out 
your own salvation with fear and trembling. Heb. vi. 11, 12. And we 
desire that every one of you do show the same diligence, to the full 
assurance of hope unto the end ; that ye be not slothful, but followers 
of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Isa. 
lxiv. 7. And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth 
up himself to take hold of thee : for thou hast hid thy face from us, 
and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities. See also 2 Pet. i. 3. 
5, 10, 11, and 2 Tim. i. 6, and Acts xxvi. 6, 7, together with Jude 20 and 
21 verses. 

9 Luke xvii. 10. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those 
things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants : 
we have done that which was our duty to do. Job ix. 2, 3. But how 
should man be just with God? If he will contend with him, he can- 
not answer him one of a thousand. Gal. v. 17. For the flesh lusteth 
against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh ; and these are con- 
trary the one to the other ; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 

5 



66 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xvi. 

disproportion that is between them and the glory to come, 
and the infinite distance that is between us and God, whom 
by them we can neither profit, nor satisfy for the debt of 
our former sins ; h but when we have done all we can, we 
have done but our duty, and are unprofitable servants ; * 
and because, as they are good, they proceed from his 
Spirit ; * and, as they are wrought by us, they are defiled 
and mixed with so much weakness and imperfection, that 
they cannot endure the severity of God's judgment.* 

VI. Yet notwithstanding, the persons of believers being 
accepted through Christ, their good works also are ac- 
cepted in him/ not as though they were in this life wholly 
unblamable and unreprovable in God's sight;" 1 but that 

h Rom. iii. 20. Therefore by the deeds of the law, there shall no 
flesh be justified in his sight : for by the law is the knowledge of sin. 
Rom. iv. 2, 4, 6. For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath 
whereof to glory, but not before God.— Now to him that worketh, is 
the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. Even as David also 
describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth 
righteousness without works. Eph. ii. 8, 9. For by grace are ye saved 
through faith ; and that not of yourselves : it is the gift of God : not 
of works, lest any man should boast. Psa. xvi. 2. O my soul, thou 
hast said unto the Lord, Thou art my Lord ; my goodness extendeth 
not to thee. See also Tit. iii. 5, 6, 7. Rom. viii. 18, 22, 23, and Job xxxv. 
7,8. 

» Luke xvii. 10. See letter (*), p. 65. 

i Gal. v. 22, 23. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long- 
suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. 

* Isa. lxiv. 6. But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our right- 
eousnesses are as filthy rags : and we all do fade as a leaf; and our in- 
iquities, like the wind, have taken us away. Psa. cxliii. 2. And enter 
not into judgment with thy servant ; for in thy sight shall no man 
living be justified. Psa. cxxx. 3. If thou, Lord, shouldest mark in- 
iquities, O Lord, who shall stand? See also Gal. v. 17, and Rom. vii. 
15, 18. 

' Eph. i. 6. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath 
made us accepted in the Beloved. 1 Pet. ii. 5. Ye also, as lively 
stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up 
spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Gen. iv. 4. And 
Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock, and of the fat 
thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel, and to his offering. 
With Heb. xi. 4. 

m Job ix. 20. If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn 
me: if I say, I. am perfect, it shall also prove me perverse. Psa 
cxliii. 2. 



sect, vii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 67 

he, looking upon them in his Son, is pleased to accept and 
reward that which is sincere, although accompanied with 
many weaknesses and imperfections. 71 

VII. Works done by unregenerate men, although, for the 
matter of them, they may be things which God commands, 
and of good use both to themselves and others : ° yet, be- 
cause they proceed not from a heart purified by faith ; p noi 
are done in a right manner, according to the word ; q noi 
to a right end, the glory of God ; r they are therefore sin- 

n 2 Cor. viii. 12. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted 
according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 
Heb. vi. 10. For God is not unrighteous, to forget your work and labo: 
of love, which ye have showed toward his name, in that ye have min 
istered to the saints, and do minister. Matt. xxv. 21, 23. His lord said 
unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant ; thou hast been 
faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things 
enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 

2 Kings x. 30, 31. And the Lord said unto Jehu, Because thou has' 
done well in executing that which is right in mine eyes, and hast done 
unto the house of Ahab according to all that was in mine heart, thy 
children of the fourth generation shall sit on the throne of Israel. 
But Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel 
with all his heart ; for he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, 
which made Israel to sin. Phil. i. 15, 16, 18. Some indeed preach 
Christ even of envy and strife, and some also of good will : the one 
preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction 
to my bonds. — What then ? notwithstanding, every way, whether in 
pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached ; and I therein do rejoice. 

p Heb. xi. 4, 6. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sac- 
rifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, 
God testifying of his gifts ; and by it, he being dead, yet speaketh. — 
But without faith it is impossible to please him : for he that cometh to 
God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that 
diligently seek him. See Gen. iv. 3, 4, 5. 

1 1 Cor. xiii. 3. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, 
and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it 
profiteth me nothing. Isa. i. 12. When ye come to appear before me, 
who hath required this at your hand, to tread my courts ? 

r Matt. vi. 2, 5, 16. Therefore, when thou doest thine alms, do not 
sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues, 
and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say 
unto you, They have their reward. — And when thou prayest, thou 
shalt not be as the hypocrites are ; for they love to pray standing in 
the synagogues, and in the corners of the streets, that they may be 
seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. — More- 
over, when ye fast, be not as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance ; for 



68 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xvu. 

ful, and cannot please God, or make a man meet to receive 
grace from God.* And yet their neglect of them is more 
sinful, and displeasing unto God.' 



CHAPTER XVII. 

OF THE PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS. 

They whom God hath accepted in his Beloved, effectu- 
ally called and sanctified by his Spirit, can neither totally 
nor finally fall away from the state of grace ; but shall 
certainly persevere therein to the end, and be eternally 
saved." 

II. This perseverance of the saints depends, not upon 
their own free-will, but upon the immutability of the de- 
cree of election, flowing from the free and unchangeable 



they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. 
Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 

« Hag. ii. 14. So is this people, and so is this nation before me, saith 
the Lord ; and so is every work of their hands ; and that which they 
offer there is unclean. Tit. i. 15. Unto them that are defiled and un- 
believing is nothing pure ; but even their mind and conscience is de- 
filed. Amos v. 21,22. I hate, I despise your feast-days, and I will not 
smell in your solemn assemblies. Though ye offer me burnt-offerings, 
and your meat-offerings, I will not accept them ; neither will I regard 
the peace-offerings of your fat beasts. See also Hos. i. 4 ; Rom. ix. 16, 
and Tit. iii. 5. 

' Psa. xiv. 4. Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge? who 
eat up my people as they eat bread, and call not upon the Lord. Psa. 
xxxvi. 3. The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit : he hath 
left off to be wise, and to do good. Job xxi. 14, Therefore they say 
unto God, Depart from us ; for we desire not the knowledge of thy 
ways. See also Matt. xxv. 41, 42, 43, 45, and Matt, xxiii. 23. 

u Phil. i. 6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath 
begun a good work in you, will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. 
John x. 28, 29. And I give unto them eternal life ; and they shall never 
perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. My Father 
which gave them me is greater than all: and none is able to pluck 
them out of my Father's hand. See also 1 John iii. 9 ; 1 Pet. i. 5, 9, 
and Job xvii. 9. 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 69 

love of God the Father ; v upon the efficacy of the merit 
and intercession of Jesus Christ ; w the abiding of the 
Spirit and of the seed of God within them ; x and the 
nature of the covenant of grace : y from all which ariseth 
also the certainty and infallibility thereof/ 

III. Nevertheless they may, through the temptations of 
Satan and of the world, the prevalency of corruption re- 
maining in them, and the neglect of the means of their 



v 2 Tim. ii. 19. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, 
having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. Jer. xxxi. 3. 
The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved 
thee with an everlasting love ; therefore with loving-kindness have I 
drawn thee. 

» Heb. x. 10, 14. By the which will we are sanctified, through the 
offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. — For by one offering 
he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. John xvii. 11, 24. 
And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and 
I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those 
whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. — Father, 
I will that they also whom thou hast given me be with me where I 
am : that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me ; for 
thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. Heb. vii. 25. 
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come 
unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. 
Heb. ix. 12, 13, 14, 15. Rom. viii. 33, to the end. Luke xxii. 32. 

x John xiv. 16, 17. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you 
another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; even the 
Spirit of truth ; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him 
not, neither knoweth him; but ye know him; for he dwelleth with 
you, and shall be in you. 1 John ii. 27. But the anointing which ye 
have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man 
teach you : but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and 
is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide 
in him. 1 John iii. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit 
sin ; for his seed remaineth in him ; and he cannot sin, because he is 
born of God. 

y Jer. xxxii. 40. And I will make an everlasting covenant with 
them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good ; but I 
will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me. 
With Heb. viii. 10, 11, 12. 

z 2 Thess. iii. 3. But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and 
keep you from evil. 1 John ii. 19. They went out from us, but they 
were not of us ; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have 
continued with us : but they went out, that they might be made mani- 
fest, that they were not all of us. John x. 28. They shall never per- 
ish. 1 Thess. v. 23, 24. 



70 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xvn. 

preservation, fall into grievous sins ; a and for a time con- 
tinue therein : 6 whereby they incur God's displeasure, 6 
and grieve his Holy Spirit ; d come to be deprived of some 
measure of their graces and comforts ; e have their hearts 
hardened/ and their consciences wounded; 5 hurt and 
scandalize others,* and bring temporal judgments upon 
themselves. 1 ' 

« Matt. xxvi. 70, 72, 74. But he denied before them all, saying, I 
know not what thou say est.— And again he denied with an oath, I do 
not know the man.— Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I 
know not the man. 

& 2 Sam. xii. 9, 13. Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment 
of the Lord, to do evil in his sight ? Thou hast killed Uriah the Hit- 
tite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast 
slain him with the sword of the children of Amnion.— And David 
said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said 
unto David, The Lord also hath put away thy sin ; thou shalt not die. 

c Isa. lxiv. 7, 9. For thou hast hid thy face from us, and hast con- 
sumed us, because of our iniquities.— Be not wroth very sore, O Lord, 
neither remember iniquity for ever: behold, see, we beseech thee, we 
are all thy people. 2 Sam. xi. 27. And when the mourning was past, 
David sent and fetched her to his house, and she became his wife, and 
bare him a son. But the thing that David had done displeased the 
Lord. 

d Eph. iv. 30. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye 
are sealed unto the day of redemption. 

« Psa. li. 8, 10, 12. Make me to hear joy and gladness : that the bones 
which thou hast broken may rejoice.— Create in me a clean heart, O 
God ; and renew a right spirit within me. — Restore unto me the joy of 
thy salvation ; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Rev. ii. 4. Never- 
theless, I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first 
love. 

/Mark vi. 52. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: 
for their heart was hardened. Mark xvi. 14. Afterward he appeared 
unto the eleven, as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their 
unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which 
had seen him, after he was risen. Psa. xcv. 8. 

ff Psa. xxxii. 3, 4. When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through 
my roaring all the day long; for day and night thy hand was heavy 
upon me ; my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Psa. 
li. 8. Make me to hear joy and gladness ; that the bones which thou 
hast broken may rejoice. 

h 2 Sam. xii. 14. Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great 
occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme, the child also that 
is born unto thee, shall surely die. 

4 Psa. lxxxix. 31, 32. If they break my statutes, and keep not my 
commandments; then will I visit their transgression with the rod, 



sect. ii. CONFESSION OF FAFFH. 71 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

OF THE ASSURANCE OF GRACE AND SALVATION. 

Although hypocrites, and other unregenerate men, 
may vainly deceive themselves with false hopes and car- 
nal presumptions of being in the favor of God and estate 
of salvation ; j which hope of theirs shall perish : k yet such 
as truly believe in the Lord Jesus, and love him in sincer- 
ity, endeavoring to walk in all good conscience before him, 
may in this life be certainly assured that they are in a 
state of grace/ and may rejoice in the hope of the glory 
of God; which hope shall never make them ashamed. 771 

II. This certainty is not a bare conjectural and probable 
persuasion, grounded upon a fallible hope ; n but an in- 
fallible assurance of faith, founded upon the divine truth 
of the promises of salvation, the inward evidence of those 

and their iniquity with stripes. 1 Cor. xi. 32. But when we are judged 
we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with 
the world. 

J Job viii. 14. Whose hope shall be cut off, and whose trust shall be 
a spider's web. Deut. xxix. 19. I shall have peace though I walk in 
the imagination of my heart, to add drunkenness to thirst. John viii. 
41. Ye do the deeds of your Father. Then said they to him, We be 
not born of fornication ; we have one Father, even God. 

* Matt. vii. 22, 23. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have 
we not prophesied in thy name ? and in thy name have cast out devils ? 
and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I pro- 
fess unto them, I never knew you ; depart from me, ye that work in- 
iquity. Job viii. 13. 

1 1 John ii. 3. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep 
his commandments. 1 John v. 13. These things have I written unto 
you that believe on the name of the Son of God, that ye may know 
that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the 
Son of God. 1 John iii. 14, 18, 19, 21, 24. 

TO Rom. v. 2, 5. By whom also we have access by faith into this grace 
wherein we stand, and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.— And 
hope maketh not ashamed ; because the love of God is shed abroad in 
our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. 

n Heb. vi. 11, 19. And we desire that every one of you do show the 
same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end.— Which 
hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and 
which entereth into that within the veil. 

Heb. vi. 17, 18. Wherein God, willing more abundantly to show 



72 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xvm. 

graces unto which these promises are made, p the testimony 
of the Spirit of adoption witnessing with our spirits that 
we are the children of God : q which Spirit is the earnest 
of our inheritance, whereby we are sealed to the day of 
redemption/ 

III. This infallible assurance doth not so belong to the 
essence of faith, but that a true believer may wait long, 
and conflict with many difficulties before he be partaker 
of it : * yet, being enabled by the Spirit to know the things 
which are freely given him of God, he may, without ex- 
traordinary revelation, in the right use of ordinary means, 
attain thereunto/ And therefore it is the duty of every 

unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed 
it by an oath : that by two immutable things, in which it was impossi- 
ble for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled 
for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us. 

p 2 Pet. i. 4, 5, 10, 11. Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and 
precious promises; that by these ye might be partakers of the divine 
nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through 
lust. And besides this, giving all diligence, add to your faith, virtue ; 
and to virtue, knowledge.— Wherefore the rather, brethren, give dili- 
gence to make your calling and election sure ; for if ye do these things, 
ye shall never fall : for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you 
abundantly, into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour 
Jesus Christ. 1 John iii. 11. We know that we have passed from death 
unto life, because we love the brethren. 1 John i. 3, and 2 Cor. i. 12. 

* Rom. viii. 15, 16. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage 
again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we 
cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, 
that we are the children of God. 

r Eph. i. 13, 11. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the 
word of truth, the gospel of your salvation : in whom also, after that 
ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise, which is 
the earnest of our inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased 
possession, unto the praise of his glory. 2 Cor. i. 21, 22. Now he which 
establisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God ; who 
hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. 

•Isa. 1. 10. Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth 
the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light ? 
Let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God. 1 John 
v. 13. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name 
of the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and 
that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. See Psa. lxxxviii. 
throughout, and lxxvii. to the 12th verse. 

*1 Cor. ii. 12. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but 



sect, iv.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 73 

one to give all diligence to make his calling and election 
sure ; u that thereby his heart may be enlarged in peace 
and joy in the Holy Ghost, in love and thankfulness to 
God, and in strength and cheerfulness in the duties of 
obedience, the proper fruits of this assurance : v so far is 
it from inclining men to looseness.™ 

IV. True believers may have the assurance of their sal- 
vation divers ways shaken, diminished, and intermitted : 
as, by negligence in preserving of it; by falling into some 
special sin, which woundeth the conscience, and grieveth 
the Spirit ; by some sudden or vehement temptation ; by 
God's withdrawing the light of his countenance, and suf- 
fering even such as fear him to walk in darkness and to 
have no light : x yet are they never utterly destitute of that 

the Spirit which is of God ; that we might know the things that are 
freely given to us of God. 1 John iv. 13. Hereby know we that we 
dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. 
Heb. vi. 11, 12. And we desire that every one of you do show the same 
diligence, to the full assurance of hope unto the end : that ye be not 
slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit 
the promises. Eph. iii. 17, 18, 19. 

u 2 Pet. i. 10. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make 
your calling and election sure ; for if ye do these things, ye shall never 
fall. 

v Rom. v. 1, 2, 5. Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace 
with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ : by whom also we have 
access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope 
of the glory of God.— And hope maketh not ashamed ; because the 
love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is 
given unto us. Rom. xiv. 17. For the kingdom of God is not meat 
and drink ; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 
Rom. xv. 13. Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in 
believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy 
Ghost. Psa. cxix. 32. I will run the way of thy commandments, when 
thou shalt enlarge my heart. Psa. iv. 6, 7. Eph. i. 3, 4. 

w Rom. vi. 1, 2. What shall we say then? shall we continue in sin, 
that grace may abound ? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to 
sin, live any longer therein ? Tit. ii. 11, 12, 14. For the grace of God 
that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us, that, 
denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, right- 
eously, and godly, in this present world.— Who gave himself for us, 
that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a 
peculiar people, zealous of good works. 

* Cant. v. 2, 3, 6. I sleep, but my heart waketh : it is the voice of my 
beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my 



74 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xix. 

seed of God, and life of faith ; that love of Christ and the 
brethren ; that sincerity of heart and conscience of duty ; 
out of which, by the operation of the Spirit, this assurance 
may in due time be revived/ and by the which, in the 
mean time, they are supported from utter despair/ 



CHAPTEE XIX. 

OF THE LAW OF GOD. 

God gave to Adam a law, as a covenant of works, by 
which he bound him and all his posterity to personal, en- 
tire, exact, and perpetual obedience; promised life upon 
the fulfilling, and threatened death upon the breach of it; 
and endued him with power and ability to keep it. a 

dove, my undefiled : for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with 
the drops of the night. I have put off my coat ; how shall I put it on ? 
I have washed my feet ; how shall I defile them ?— I opened to my he- 
loved ; but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone : my 
soul failed when he spake : I sought him, but I could not find him ; I 
called him, but he gave me no answer. Psa. li. 8, 12, 14. Make me to 
hear joy and gladness: that the bones which thou hast broken may 
rejoice.— Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation ; and uphold me 
with thy free Spirit.— Deliver me from blood-guiltiness, O God, thou 
God of my salvation ; and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy right- 
eousness. Eph. iv. 30. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby 
ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Compare the above with 
Psa. lxxvii. first ten verses, and Matt. xxvi. 69, 70, 71, 72. Psa. xxxi. 
22. Psa. lxxxviii. throughout, and Isa. 1. 10. 

v 1 John iii. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin ; for 
his seed remaineth in him ; and he cannot sin, because he is born of 
God. Luke xxii. 32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail 
not. Job xiii. 15. Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him : but I 
will maintain mine own ways before him. Psa. lxxiii. 15, and li. 8, 12, 
with Isa. 1. 10. 

* Micah vii. 7, 8, 9. Therefore I will look unto the Lord : I will wait 
for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me. Rejoice not 
against me, O mine enemy ; when I fall, I shall arise ; when I sit in 
darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me. I will bear the indigna- 
tion of the Lord, because I have sinned against him, until he plead 
my cause, and execute judgment for me : he will bring me forth to the 
light, and I shall behold his righteousness. Isa. liv. 7, 8. 

a Gen. i. 26. And God said, Let us make man in our image, after 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 75 

II. This law, after his fall, continued to be a perfect 
rule of righteousness, and, as such, was delivered by God 
upon mount Sinai in ten commandments, and written in 
two tables ; b the first four commandments containing our 
duty towards God, and the other six our duty to man. c 

III. Besides this law, commonly called moral, God was 
pleased to give to the people of Israel, as a church under 
age, ceremonial laws, containing several typical ordinances, 
partly of worship, prefiguring Christ, his graces, actions, 
sufferings, and benefits ; d and partly holding forth divers 

our likeness. Gen. ii. 17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good 
and evil, thou shalt not eat of it : for in the day that thou eatest there- 
of thou shalt surely die. Rom. ii. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles, which 
have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, 
having not the law, are a law unto themselves ; which show the work 
of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing wit- 
ness, and their thoughts the meanwhile accusing or else excusing one 
another. Rom. x. 5. For Moses describeth the righteousness which 
is of the law, that the man which doeth those things shall live by 
them. Rom. v. 12, 19. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the 
world, and death by sin ; and so death passed upon all men, for that 
all have sinned.— For as by one man's disobedience many were made 
sinners ; so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 
See also Gal. iii. 10, 12. Eccl. vii. 29, and Job xxviii. 28. 

b James i. 25. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and 
continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the 
work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. James ii. 8, 10. If ye 
fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, Thou shalt love thy 
neighbor as thyself, ye do well.— For whosoever shall keep the whole 
law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. Rom. iii. 19. Now 
we know, that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who 
are under the law. Deut. v. 32. Ye shall observe to do therefore as 
the Lord your God hath commanded you : ye shall not turn aside to 
the right hand or to the left. And chap. x. 4. And he wrote on the 
tables, according to the first writing, the ten commandments, which 
the Lord spake unto you in the mount, out of the midst of the fire in 
the day of the assembly; and the Lord gave them unto me. Ex. 
xxxiv. 1 , and Rom. xiii. 8, 9. 

c Matt. xxii. 37, 38, 39, 40. Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the 
Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all 
thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second 
is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two 
commandments hang all the law and the prophets. Ex. xx. 3 to 17. 

d Heb. x. 1. For the law, having a shadow of good things to come, 
and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices, 
which they offered year by year continually, make the comers there- 



76 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xix. 

instructions of moral duties/ All which ceremonial laws 
are now abrogated under the New Testament/ 

IV. To them also, as a body politic, he gave sundry- 
judicial laws, which expired together with the state of 
that people, not obliging any other, now, further than the 
general equity thereof may require/ 

V. The moral law doth for ever bind all, as well justi- 
fied persons as others, to the obedience thereof; h and that 
not only in regard of the matter contained in it, but also 
in respect of the authority of God the Creator who gave 



unto perfect. Gal. iv. 1, 2, 3. Now I say, that the heir, as long as he is 
a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all ; 
but is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the fa- 
ther. Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the 
elements of the world. Col. ii. 17. Which are a shadow of things to 
come : but the body is of Christ. Heb. ix. chap. 

e 1 Cor. v. 7. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a 
new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sac- 
rificed for us. 2 Cor. vi. 17. Wherefore, come out from among them, 
and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing ; 
and I will receive you. 

/ Col. ii. 14, 16, 17. Blotting out the hand- writing of ordinances that 
was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, 
nailing it to his cross.— Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in 
drink.— Which are a shadow of things to come : but the body is of 
Christ. Eph. ii. 15, 16. Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, 
even the law of commandments contained in ordinances ; for to 
make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; and 
that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, 
having slain the enmity thereby. 

9 See Ex. xxi. chap, and xxii. chap. 1st to the 29th verse. Gen. xlix. 
10. The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from be- 
tween his feet, until Shiloh come : and unto him shall the gathering 
of the people be. Matt. v. 38, 39. Ye have heard that it hath been 
said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth : but I say unto you, 
That ye resist not evil. 1 Cor. ix. 8, 9, ]0. 

h Rom. xiii. 8, 9. See letter ( b ), page 75. 1 John ii. 3, 4, 7. And here- 
by we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 
He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a 
liar, and the truth is not in him. — Brethren, I write no new command- 
ment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the be- 
ginning. Rom. iii. 31, and vi. 15. Do we then make void the law 
through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. What then? 
shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace ? God 
forbid. 



sect, vi.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 77 

it.* Neither doth Christ in the gospel any way dissolve, 
but much strengthen, this obligation/ 

VI. Although true believers be not under the law as a 
covenant of works, to be thereby justified or condemned;* 
yet is it of great use to them, as well as to others ; in that, 
as a rule of life, informing them of the will of God and 
their duty, it directs and binds them to walk accordingly ; l 
discovering also the sinful pollutions of their nature, hearts, 
and lives ; m so as, examining themselves thereby, they may 
come to further conviction of, humiliation for, and hatred 
against sin ; n together with a clearer sight of the need 
they have of Christ, and the perfection of his obedience. 
It is likewise of use to the regenerate, to restrain their cor- 

* Jam. ii. 10, 11. See letter ( 5 ), page 75. 

i Matt. v. 18, 19. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth 
pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be 
fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least command- 
ments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the king- 
dom of heaven : but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall 
be called great in the kingdom of heaven. James ii. 8. Rom. iii. 31. 

* Rom. vi. 14. For sin shall not have dominion over you ; for ye are 
not under the law, but under grace. Rom. viii. 1. There is therefore 
now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk 
not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. See also Gal. iv. 4, 5, and Acts 
xiii. 39. 

1 Rom. vii. 12. Wherefore the law is holy ; and the commandment 
holy, and just, and good. Psa. cxix. 5. O that my ways were directed 
to keep thy statutes ! 1 Cor. vii. 19. Circumcision is nothing, and un- 
circumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of 
God. Gal. v. 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23. 

m Rom. vii. 7. What shall we say then ? is the law sin ? God v forbid. 
Nay, I had not known sin but by the law : for I had not known lust, 
except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. Rom. iii. 20. For by 
the law is the knowledge of sin. 

n Rom. vii. 9, 14, 24. For I was alive without the law once ; but when 
the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. — For we know that 
the law is spiritual ; but I am carnal , sold under sin.— O wretched 
man that I am ! who shall deliver me from the body of this death ? 

Gal. iii. 24. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us 
unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. Rom. viii. 3, 4. For 
what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God 
sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, con- 
demned sin in the flesh ; that the righteousness of the law might be 
fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Rom. 
vii. 24, 25. 



78 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xix. 

ruptions, in that it forbids sin ; * and the threatenings of 
it serve to show what even their sins deserve, and what 
afflictions in this life they may expect for them, although 
freed from the curse thereof threatened in the law. g The 
promises of it, in like manner, show them God's approba- 
tion of obedience, and what blessings they may expect 
upon the performance thereof/ although not as due to 
them by the law as a covenant of works : * so as a man's 
doing good, and refraining from evil, because the law en- 
courageth to the one, and deterreth from the other, is no 
evidence of his being under the law, and not under grace/ 
VII. Neither are the forementioned uses of the law con- 
trary to the grace of the gospel, but do sweetly comply 
with it ; u the Spirit of Christ subduing and enabling the 

p James ii. 11. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, 
Do not kill. Now, if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou 
art become a transgressor of the law. Psa. cxix. 128. Therefore I es- 
teem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right ; and I hate 
every false way. 

« Ezra ix. 13, 14. And after all that is come upon us for our evil 
deeds, and for our great trespass, seeing that thou our God hast pun- 
ished us less than our iniquities deserve, and hast given us such de- 
liverance as this ; should we again break thy commandments, and 
join in affinity with the people of these abominations? wouldest thou 
not be angry with us till thou hadst consumed us, so that there should 
be no remnant nor escaping ? Psa. lxxxix. 30, 31, 32, 33, 34. 

r Psa. xxxvii. 11. But the meek shall inherit the earth ; and shall 
delight themselves in the abundance of peace. Psa. xix. 11. More- 
over by them is thy servant warned : and in keeping of them there is 
great reward. Lev. xxvi. 1, to the 14th verse, and Eph. vi. 2. Matt, 
v. 5. 

• Gal. ii. 16. Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the 
law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus 
Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by 
the works of the law : for by the works of the law shall no flesh be 
justified. 

* Rom. vi. 12, 14. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, 
that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.— For sin shall not have do- 
minion over you : for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Hob. 
xii. 28, 29. Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, 
let us have grace whereby we may serve God acceptably, with rever- 
ence and godly fear.— For our God is a consuming fire. 1 Pet. iii. 8, 9, 
10, 11, 12. Psa. xxxiv. 12, 13, 14, 15, 16. 

u Gal. iii. 21. Is the law then against the promises of God ? God for- 
bid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life. 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 79 

will of man to do that freely and cheerfully, which the 
will of God, revealed in the law, requireth to be done." 



CHAPTER XX. 

OF CHRISTIAN LIBERTY, AND LIBERTY OF CONSCIENCE. 

The liberty which Christ hath purchased for believers 
under the gospel consists in their freedom from the guilt 
of sin, the condemning wrath of God, the curse of the 
moral law ; w and in their being delivered from this pres- 
ent evil world, bondage to Satan, and dominion of sin, z 
from the evil of afflictions, the sting of death, the victory 
of the grave, and everlasting damnation ; y as also in their 
free access to God/ and their yielding obedience unto him, 
not out of slavish fear, but a child-like love, and a willing 

verily righteousness should have been by the law. Tit. ii. 11, 12, 
13, 14. 

v Ezek. xxxvi. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause 
you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do 
them. Heb. viii. 10. For this is the covenant that I will make with 
the house of Israel, after those days, saith the Lord ; I will put my 
laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts ; and I will be to 
them a God, and they shall be to me a people. Jer. xxxi. 33. 

w Tit. ii. 14. Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from 
all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good 
works. Gal. iii. 13. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the 
law, being made a curse for us : for it is written, Cursed, etc. 

x Gal. i. 4. Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us 
from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Fa- 
ther. Acts xxvi. 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from dark- 
ness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may 
receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are 
sanctified by faith that is in me. Rom. vi. 14. For sin shall not have 
dominion over you : for ye are not under the law, but under grace. 

y Psa. cxix. 71. It is good for me that I have been afflicted : that I 
might learn thy statutes. 1 Cor. xv. 56, 57. The sting of death is sin ; 
and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth 
us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Rom. viii. 1. 

* Rom. v. 2. By whom also we have access by faith into this grace 
wherein we stand. 



80 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xi. 

mind. a All which were common also to believers under 
the law : b but under the New Testament, the liberty of 
Christians is further enlarged in their freedom from the 
yoke of the ceremonial law, to which the Jewish church 
was subjected; 6 and in greater boldness of access to the 
throne of grace/ and in fuller communications of the free 
Spirit of God, than believers under the law did ordinarily 
partake of. e 

II. God alone is Lord of the conscience/ and hath left 
it free from the doctrines and commandments of men 
which are in any thing contrary to his word, or beside it, 
in matters of faith or worship.^ So that to believe such 

° Rom. viii. 14, 15. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they 
are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage 
again to fear ; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we 
cry, Abba, Father. 1 John iv. 18.— There is no fear in love ; but perfect 
love casteth out fear : because fear hath torment. He that feareth is 
not made perfect in love. 

6 Gal. iii. 9, 14. So then they which be of faith, are blessed with 
faithful Abraham. — That the blessing of Abraham might come on the 
Gentiles through Jesus Christ ; that we might receive the promise of 
the Spirit through faith. 

c Gal. v. 1. Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath 
oaade us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. 

Vets xv. 10. Now therefore, why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon 
-he neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able 
vo bear ? Gal. iv. 1, 2, 3, 6. 

d Heb. iv. 14, 16. Seeing then that we have a great high-priest, that 
is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our 
profession.— Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, 
that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. 
Heb. x. 19, 20. Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the 
holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which he hath 
consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh. 

■ John vii. 38, 39. He that believeth on me, as the Scripture hath 
said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake 
he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive ; for 
the Holy Ghost was not yet given, because that Jesus was not yet 
glorified.) 2 Cor. iii. 13, 17, 18. 

/Rom. xiv. 4. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to 
his own master he standeth or falleth ; yea, he shall be holden up ; 
for God is able to make him stand. 

ff Acts iv. 19. But Peter and John answered and said unto them, 
Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more 
than unto God, judge ye. Acts v. 29. Then Peter and the other apes- 



sect, iv.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 81 

doctrines, or to obey such commandments out of con- 
science, is to betray true liberty of conscience ; h and the 
requiring an implicit faith, and an absolute and blind 
obedience, is to destroy liberty of conscience, and reason 
also/ 

III. They who, upon pretence of Christian liberty, do 
practice any sin, or cherish any lust, do thereby destroy 
the end of Christian liberty ; which is, that, being deliv- 
ered out of the hands of our enemies, we might serve the 
Lord without fear, in holiness and righteousness before 
him, all the days of our life/ 

IV. And because the powers which God hath ordained, 
and the liberty which Christ hath purchased, are not in- 
tended by God to destroy, but mutually to uphold and 
preserve one another ; they who, upon pretence of Chris- 
tian liberty, shall oppose any lawful power, or the lawful 
exercise of it, whether it be civil or ecclesiastical, resist 

ties answered, and said, We ought to obey God, rather than men. 
1 Cor. vii. 23. Matt, xxiii. 8, 9, 10. 2 Cor. i. 24. Matt. xv. 9. 

* Col. ii. 20, 22, 23. Wherefore, if ye be dead with Christ from the 
rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye 
subject to ordinances; — (which all are to perish with the using,) after 
the commandments and doctrines of men? Which things have in- 
deed a show of wisdom in will-worship, and humility, and neglecting 
of the body; not in any honor to the satisfying of the flesh. Gal. i. 
10. For do I now persuade men, or God ? or do I seek to please men ? 
for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. Gal. 
ii. 4. And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who 
came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, 
that they might bring us into bondage. See Gal. v. 1. 

* Isa. viii. 20. To the law and to the testimony : if they speak not 
according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Acts 
xvii. 11. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that 
they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the 
Scriptures daily, whether those things were so. John iv. 22. Ye wor- 
ship ye know not what : we know what we worship ; for salvation is 
of the Jews. See also Hos. v. 11, with Rev. xiii. 12, 16, 17. 

.?* Gal. v. 13. For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only 
use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one an- 
other. 1 Pet. ii. 16. As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of 
maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Luke i. 74, 75. That he 
would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our 
enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness 
before him, all the days of our life. 2 Pet. ii. 19. John viii. 34. 
6 



82 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xxi. 

the ordinance of God.* And for their publishing of such 
opinions, or maintaining of such practices, as are contrary 
to the light of nature, or to the known principles of Chris- 
tianity, whether concerning faith, worship, or conversa- 
tion, or to the power of godliness; or such erroneous 
opinions or practices, as either, in their own nature, or, in 
the manner of publishing or maintaining them, are de- 
structive to the external peace and order which Christ 
hath established in the church ; l they may lawfully be 
called to account, and proceeded against by the censures 
of the church." 1 



CHAPTER XXI. 

OF RELIGIOUS WORSHIP AND THE SABBATH-DAY. 

The light of nature showeth that there is a God, who 
hath lordship and sovereignty over all ; is good, and doeth 

* 1 Pet. ii. 13, 14, 16. Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man 
for the Lord's sake : whether it be to the king, as supreme ; or unto 
governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of 
evil doers, and for the praise of them that do well.— As free, and not 
using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of 
God. Heb. xiii. 17. Obey them that have the rule over you, and sub- 
mit yourselves : for they watch for your souls, as they that must give 
account, that they may do it w T ith joy and not with grief: for that is 
unprofitable for you. See also Rom. xiii. 1 to the 8th verse. 

1 Rom. i. 32. Who, knowing the judgment of God, that they which 
commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but 
have pleasure in them that do them. 1 Cor. v. 1, 5, 11, 13. It is re- 
ported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such for- 
nication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one 
should have his father's wife.— To deliver such an one unto Satan for 
the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of 
the Lord Jesus.— But now I have written unto you not to keep com- 
pany, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, 
or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner ; with such 
an one, no, not to eat.— But them that are without, God judgeth. There- 
fore put away from among yourselves that wicked person. 

«* 2 Thess. iii. 14. And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, 
note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be 
ashamed. Tit. iii. 10. A man that is an heretic, after the first and 
second admonition, reject. 



sect, ii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 83 

good unto all ; and is therefore to be feared, loved, praised, 
called upon, trusted in, and served with all the heart, and 
with all the soul, and with all the might. 71 But the ac- 
ceptable way of worshiping the true God is instituted by 
himself, and so limited by his own revealed will, that he 
may not be worshiped according to the imaginations and 
devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any 
visible representation or any other way not prescribed in 
the Holy Scripture. 

II. Religious worship is to be given to God, the Father, 
Son, and Holy Ghost; and to him alone : p not to angels, 
saints, or any other creature : q and, since the fall, not with- 
out a Mediator ; nor in the mediation of any other but of 
Christ alone/ 

n Rom. i. 20. For the invisible things of him from the creation of 
the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are 
made, even his eternal power and godhead ; so that they are without 
excuse. Psa. cxix. 68. Thou art good, and doest good : teach me thy 
statutes. Jer. x. 7. Who would not fear thee, O King of nations? for 
to thee doth it appertain : forasmuch as among all the wise men of 
the nations, and in all their kingdoms, there is none like unto thee. 
Psa. xxxi. 23. O love the Lord, all ye his saints ; for the Lord pre- 
serveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. Psa. 
xviii. 3. Rom. x. 12. Psa. lxii. 8. Josh. xxiv. 14. Mark xii. 33. 

Deut. xii. 32. What thing soever I command you, observe to do it : 
thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it. Matt. xv. 9. But in 
vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments 
of men. Matt. iv. 9, 10. And saith unto him, All these things will I 
give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus 
unto him, Get thee hence, Satan : for it is written, Thou shalt worship 
the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. See also Deut. xv. 
to the 20th verse, and Ex. xx. 4, 5, 6. 

p John v. 23. That all men should honor the Son, even as they honor 
the Father. He that honoreth not the Son, honoreth not the Father 
which hath sent him. 2 Cor. xiii. 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus 
Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost 
be with you all. Amen. Matt. iv. 10. Rev. v. 11, 12, 13. 

3 Col. ii. 18. Let no man beguile you of your reward, in a voluntary 
humility, and worshiping of angels. Rev. xix. 10. And I fell at his 
feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not ; 1 am 
thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of 
Jesus : worship God. Rom. i. 25. Who changed the truth of God into 
a lie, and worshiped and served the creature more than the Creator, 
who is blessed for ever. Amen. 

r John xiv. 6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, 



84 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xxi. 

III. Prayer, with thanksgiving, being one special part of 
religious worship, 8 is by God required of all men ; t and 
that it may be accepted, it is to be made in the name of 
the Son, M by the help of his Spirit," according to his will," 
with understanding, reverence, humility, fervency, faith, 
love, and perseverance ; x and, if vocal, in a known 
tongue. 2 ' 

IV. Prayer is to be made for things lawful,* and for all 
sorts of men living, or that shall live hereafter ; a but not 



and the life : no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. 1 Tim. ii. 
5. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the 
man Christ Jesus. Eph. ii. 18. For through him we both have access 
by one Spirit unto the Father. 

8 Phil. iv. 6. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer 
and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known 
unto God. 

* Psa. lxv. 2. O thou that hearest prayer, unto thee shall all flesh 
come. 

u John xiv. 13, 14. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that 
will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask 
any thing in my name, I will do it. 

* Rom. viii. 26. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities : for 
we know not what we should pray for as we ought ; but the Spirit it- 
self maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be ut- 
tered. 

w 1 John v. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that 
if we ask any thing according to his will he heareth us. 

* Psa. xlvii. 7. For God is the king of all the earth ; sing ye praises 
with understanding. Heb. xii. 28. Let us have grace, whereby we 
may serve God acceptably, with reverence and godly fear. Gen. xviii. 
27. I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord, which am but dust 
and ashes. Jam. v. 16. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous 
man availeth much. Eph. vi. 18. Praying always with all prayer and 
supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all persever- 
ance and supplication for all saints. See also Jam. i, 6, 7. Mark xi. 
24. Matt. vi. 12, 14, 15. Col. iv. 2. 

v 1 Cor. xiv. 14. For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit 
prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. 

* 1 John v. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that 
if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us. 

a 1 Tim. ii. 1, 2. I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, 
prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men ; for 
kings, and for all that are in authority ; that we may lead a quiet and 
peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 



sect, v.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 85 

for the dead, 6 nor for those of whom it may be known that 
they have sinned the sin unto death. c 

V. The reading of the Scriptures with godly fear; d the 
sound preaching/ and conscionable hearing of the word, 
in obedience unto God with understanding, faith, and 
reverence/ singing of psalms with grace in the heart ; 9 
as, also, the due administration and worthy receiving of 
the sacraments instituted by Christ; are all parts of the 
ordinary religious worship of God : h besides religious oaths/ 

6 2 Sam. xii. 21, 22, 23. Then said his servants unto him, What thing 
is this that thon hast done ? Thou didst fast and weep for the child, 
while it was alive ; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and 
eat bread. And he said, While the child was yet alive, I fasted and 
wept: for I said, Who can tell whether God will be gracious tome, 
that the child may live? But now he is dead, wherefore should I 
fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not 
return to me. Luke xvi. 25, 26, and Rev. xiv. 13. 

« 1 John v. 16. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto 
death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not 
unto death. There is a sin unto death : I do not say that he shall pray 
for it. 

d Acts xv. 21. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that 
preach him, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath-day. Rev. i. 
3. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this 
prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein ; for the 
time is at hand. 

< 2 Tim. iv. 2. Preach the word ; be instant in season, out of season ; 
reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. 

/James i. 22. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, de- 
ceiving your own selves. Acts x. 33. Immediately therefore I sent to 
thee ; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are 
we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded 
thee of God. Heb. iv. 2. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well 
as unto them ; but the word preached did not profit them, not being 
mixed with faith in them that heard it. Matt. xiii. 19. Isa. lxvi. 2. 

ff Col. iii. 16. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wis- 
dom ; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns 
and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 
Eph. v. 19. Jam. v. 13. 

h Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. Acts ii. 42. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' 
doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 
1 Cor. xi. 23, to verse 29. 

* Deut. vi. 13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and 
shalt swear by his name. 



86 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xxi. 

and vows/ solemn fastings,* and thanksgivings upon special 
occasions ; l which are, in their several times and seasons, to 
be used in an holy and religious manner." 1 

VI. Neither prayer, nor any other part of religious 
worship, is now, under the gospel, either tied unto, or made 
more acceptable by, any place in which it is performed, or 
towards which it is directed : n but God is to be worshiped 
every where ° in spirit and in truth ; p as in private families q 



i Eccl. v. 4, 5. When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay 
it; for he hath no pleasure in fools : pay that which thou hast vowed. 
Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow, 
and not pay. Acts xviii. 18. 

* Joel ii. 12. Therefore also now, saith the Lord, Turn ye even to 
me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with 
mourning. Matt. ix. 15. Can the children of the bride-chamber 
mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them ? But the days will 
come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall 
they fast. 1 Cor. vii. 5. Defraud ye not one the other, except it be 
with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and 
prayer ; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your 
incontinency. 

1 Psa. cvii. throughout. 

m Heb. xii. 28. Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be 
moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably, with 
reverence and godly fear. 

n John iv. 21. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour 
cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, 
worship the Father. 

• Mai. i. 11. From the rising of the sun, even unto the going down 
of the same, my name shall be great among the Gentiles : and in every 
place incense shall be offered unto my name, and a pure offering : for 
my name shall be great among the heathen, saith the Lord of hosts. 
1 Tim. ii. 8. I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up 
holy hands, without wrath and doubting. 

p John iv. 23, 24. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true 
worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth : for the 
Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit : and they that 
worship him, must worship him in spirit and in truth. 

? Jer. x. 25. Pour out thy fury upon the heathen that know thee not, 
and upon the families that call not on thy name. Job i. 5. And it 
was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent 
and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered 
burnt-offerings according to the number of them all : for Job said, It 
may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. 
Thus did Job continually. 2 Sam. vi. 18, 20. And as soon as David 
had made an end of offering burnt-offerings and peace-offerings, he 



sect, vii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 87 

daily/ and in secret each one by himself; 8 so more solemnly 
in the public assemblies, which are not carelessly or willfully 
to be neglected or forsaken, when God, by his word or provi- 
dence, calleth thereunto/ 

VII. As it is of the law of nature, that, in general, a 
due proportion of time be set apart for the worship of 
God ; so, in his word, by a positive, moral and perpetual 
commandment, binding all men in all ages, he hath par- 
ticularly appointed one day in seven for a Sabbath, to be 
kept holy unto him: w which, from the beginning of the 
world to the resurrection of Christ, was the last day of the 
week ; and, from the resurrection of Christ, was changed into 
the first day of the week/ which in Scripture is called the 



blessed the people in the name of the Lord of hosts.— Then David re- 
turned to bless his household. 

r Matt. vi. 11. Give us this day our daily bread. Josh. xxiv. 15. 

8 Matt. vi. 6. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet ; 
and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father, which is in se- 
cret ; and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly. 
Eph. vi. 18. 

* Isa. lvi. 7. Mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all 
people. Heb. x. 25. Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves to- 
gether, as the manner of some is ; but exhorting one another : and so 
much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Prov. viii. 34. Blessed 
is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at 
the posts of my doors. Acts ii. 42. And they continued steadfastly in 
the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and 
in prayers. 

« See the 4th commandment in Ex. xx. 8, 9, 10, 11. Isa. lvi. 2, 4. 
Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth 
hold on it : that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth 
his hand from doing any evil.— For thus saith the Lord unto the eu- 
nuchs that keep my Sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, 
and take hold of my covenant. Isa. lvi. 6. 

v Gen. ii. 3. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it ; be- 
cause that in it he had rested from all his work which God created 
and made. 1 Cor. xvi. 1, 2. Now concerning the collection for the 
saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. 
Upon the first day of the week, let every one of you lay by him in 
ptore, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when 
I come. Acts xx. 7. And upon the first day of the week, when the 
disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, 
(ready to depart on the morrow;) and continued his speech until 
midnight. 



88 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xxi. 

Lord's-day, w and is to be continued to the end of the world, 
as the Christian Sabbath. x 

VIII. This Sabbath is then kept holy unto the Lord, 
when men, after a due preparing of their hearts, and or- 
dering of their common affairs beforehand, do not only 
observe an holy rest all the day from their own works, 
words, and thoughts, about their worldly employments 
and recreations ; y but also are taken up the whole time 
in the public and private exercises of his worship, and in 
the duties of necessity and mercy/ 



w Rev. i. 10. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind 
me a great voice as of a trumpet. 

* Ex. xx. 8, 10. (See letter (»), page 87.) Matt. v. 17, 18. Think not 
that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets : I am not come to 
destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth 
pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be 
fulfilled. 

v Ex. xvi. 23, 25, 26, 29, 30. And he said unto them, This is that which 
the Lord hath said, To-morrow is the rest of the holy Sabbath unto 
the Lord : bake that which ye will bake to-day, and seethe that ye will 
seethe ; and that which remaineth over, lay up for you to be kept un- 
til the morning. — And Moses said, Eat that to-day ; for to-day is the 
Sabbath unto the Lord : to-day ye shall not find it in the field. Six 
days ye shall gather it ; but on the seventh day, which is the Sabbath, 
in it there shall be none.— See, for that the Lord hath given you the 
Sabbath, therefore he giveth you on the sixth day, the bread of two 
days : abide ye every man in his place, let no man go out of his place 
on the seventh day. So the people rested on the seventh day. Ex. 
xxxi. 15, 16. Six days may work be done ; but in the seventh is the 
Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord : whosoever doeth any work in the 
Sabbath-day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children 
of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout 
their generations for a perpetual covenant. Isa. lviii. 13. Neh. xiii. 
15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22. 

z Isa. lviii. 13. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from 
doing thy pleasure on my holy day ; and call the Sabbath a delight, 
the holy of the Lord, honorable ; and shalt honor him, not doing thine 
own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own 
words. Matt. xii. 1 to the 13th verse. 



sect, ii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 89 

CHAPTER XXII. 

OF LAWFUL OATHS AND VOWS. 

A lawful oath is a part of religious worship,* wherein 
upon just occasion, the person swearing, solemnly calleth 
God to witness what he asserteth or promiseth ; and to 
judge him according to the truth or falsehood of what he 
sweareth. 6 

II. The name of God only is that by which men ought 
to swear, and therein it is to be used with all holy fear and 
reverence ; c therefore to swear vainly or rashly by that 
glorious and dreadful name, or to swear at all by any 
other thing, is sinful, and to be abhorred. 4 * Yet as, in 
matters of weight and moment, an oath is warranted by 
the word of God, under the New Testament, as well as 
under the Old ; e so a lawful oath, being imposed by lawful 
authority, in such matters, ought to be taken. f 

a Deut. x. 20. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God ; him shalt thou 
serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear hy his name. 

6 Ex. xx. 7. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in 
vain ; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in 
vain. Lev. xix. 12. And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, 
neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the Lord. 
2 Cor. i. 23. Moreover, I call God for a record upon my soul, that to 
spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth. See also 2 Chron. vi. 22, 23. 

6 Deut. vi. 13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and 
shalt swear by his name. 

d Jer. v. 7. How shall I pardon thee for this ? thy children have for- 
saken me, and sworn by them that are no gods : when I had fed them 
to the full, they then committed adultery, and assembled themselves 
by troops in the harlots' houses. James v. 12. But above all things, 
my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, 
neither by any other oath : but let your yea be yea ; and your nay, 
nay; lest ye fall into condemnation. See the 3d commandment in 
Ex. xx. 7. 

e Heb. vi. 16. For men verily swear by the greater : and an oath for 
confirmation is to them an end of all strife. Isa. lxv. 16. 

/ 1 Kings viii. 31. If any man trespass against his neighbor, and an 
oath be laid upon him to cause him to swear, and the oath come before 
thine altar in this house. Ezra x. 5. Then arose Ezra, and made the 
chief priests, the Levites, and all Israel, to swear that they should do 
according to this word. And they sware. 



90 COXFESSIOy OF FAITH. [chap. xxii. 

III. Whosoever taketh an oath ought duly to consider 
the weightiness of so solemn an act, and therein to avouch 
nothing but what he is fully persuaded is the truths 
Neither may any man bind himself by oath to any thing 
but what is good and just, and what he believeth so to be, 
and what he is able and resolved to perform. * Yet it is a 
sin to refuse an oath touching any thing that is good and 
just, being imposed by lawful authority.* 

IV. An oath is to be taken in the plain and common 
sense of the words, without equivocation or mental reser- 
vation/ It cannot oblige to sin ; but in any thing not sin- 
ful, being taken, it binds to performance, although to a 
man's own hurt : k nor is it to be violated, although made 
to heretics or infidels/ 

ff Jer. iv. 2. And thou shalt swear, The Lord liveth, in truth, in judg- 
ment, and in righteousness ; and the nations shall bless themselves in 
him, and in him shall they glory. See also Ex. xx. 7. 

h Gen. xxiv. 2, 3, 9. And Abraham said unto his eldest servant of 
his house, that ruled over all that he had, Put, I pray thee, thy hand 
under my thigh : and I will make thee swear by the Lord, the God of 
heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto 
my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell — 
And the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master, 
and sware to him concerning that matter. 

» Num. v. 19, 21. And the priest shall charge her by an oath, and 
say unto the woman, If no man have lain with thee, and if thou hast 
not gone aside to uncleanness with another instead of thy husband, 
be thou free from this bitter water that causeth the curse.— Then the 
priest shall charge the woman with an oath of cursing ; and the priest 
shall say unto the woman, The Lord make thee a curse and an oath 
among thy people, when the Lord doth make thy thigh to rot and thy 
belly to swell. Neh. v. 12. Then I called the priests, and took an 
oath of them, that they should do according to this promise. 

i Psa. xxiv. 4. He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart ; who 
hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. Jer. iv. 
2. See letter (tr), above. 

* Psa. xv. 4. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned ; but he hon- 
oreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and 
changeth not. 1 Sam. xxv. 22, 32, 33, 34. 

1 Ezek. xvii. 16, 18. As I live, saith the Lord God, surely in the place 
where the king dwelleth that made him king, whose oath he despised, 
and whose covenant he brake, even with him in the midst of Baby- 
lon, he shall die. — Seeing he despised the oath, by breaking the cove- 
nant, when, lo, he had given his hand, and hath done all these things, 
he shall not escape. Josh. ix. 18, 19. 2 Sam. xxi. 1. 



MOOT, vii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 91 

V. A vow is of the like nature with a promissory oath, 
and ought to be made with the like religious care, and to 
be performed with the like faithfulness." 1 

VI. It is not to be made to any creature, but to God 
alone : " and that it may be accepted, it is to be made vol- 
untarily, out of faith and conscience of duty, in way of 
thankfulness for mercy received, or for obtaining of what 
we want ; whereby we more strictly bind ourselves to ne- 
cessary duties, or to other things, so far and so long as they 
may fitly conduce thereunto. 

VII. No man may vow to do any thing forbidden in the 
word of God, or what would hinder any duty therein com- 
manded, or which is not in his own power, and for the per- 
formance whereof he hath no promise or ability from God.^ 

m Isa. xix. 21. And the Lord shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyp- 
tians shall know the Lord in that day, and shall do sacrifice and obla- 
tion ; yea, they shall vow a vow nnto the Lord, and perform it. Eccl. 
v. 4, 5. When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it : for he 
hath no pleasure in fools : pay that which thou hast vowed. Better is 
it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow, and not 
pay. Psa. lxvi. 13, 14. I will pay thee my vows, which my lips have ut- 
tered, and my mouth hath spoken, when I was in trouble. Psa. lxi. 8. 

n Psa. lxxvi. 11. Vow, and pay unto the Lord your God : let all that 
be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared. 
Jer. xliv. 25, 26. 

Deut. xxiii. 21, 23. When thou shalt vow a vow unto the Lord thy 
God, thou shalt not slack to pay it : for the Lord thy God will surely 
require it of thee ; and it would be sin in thee. — That which is gone 
out of thy lips thou shalt keep and perform, even a free-will offering, 
according as thou hast vowed unto the Lord thy God, which thou hast 
promised with thy mouth. Psa, 1. 14. Offer unto God thanksgiving, 
and pay thy vows unto the Most High. Gen. xxviii. 20, 21, 22. And 
Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me 
in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to 
put on, so that I come again to my father's house in peace : then shall 
the Lord be my God : and this stone, which I have set for a pillar, 
shall be God's house : and of all that thou shalt give me, I will surely 
give the tenth unto thee. Compare with the above 1 Sam. i. 11, and 
Psa. cxxxii. 2, 3, 4, 5. 

p Acts xxiii. 12. And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded 
together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying, that they would 
neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. Mark vi. 26. And the 
king was exceeding sorry, yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes 
which sat with him, he would not reject her. See also Num. xxx. 5, 
8, 12, 13. 



92 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap, xxiit. 

In which respects, popish monastical vows of perpetual 
single life, professed poverty, and regular obedience, are 
so far from being degrees of higher perfection, that they 
are superstitious and sinful snares, in which no Christian 
may entangle himself. 3 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

OF THE CIVIL MAGISTRATE. 

God, the Supreme Lord and King of all the world, 
hath ordained civil magistrates to be under him over the 
people, for his own glory and the public good ; and, to this 
end, hath armed them with the power of the sword, for the 
defence and encouragement of them that are good, and 
for the punishment of evil doers/ 

II. It is lawful for Christians to accept and execute the 
office of a magistrate, when called thereunto ; * in the 
managing whereof, as they ought especially to maintain 
piety, justice, and peace, according to the wholesome laws 
of each commonwealth ; ' so, for that end, they may lawful- 

« 1 Cor. vii. 2, 9. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man 
have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. — But 
if they cannot contain, let them marry : for it is better to marry than 
to burn. 1 Cor. vii. 23. 

r Rom. xiii. 1, 3, 4. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. 
For there is no power but of God : the powers that be are ordained of 
God.— For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt 
thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and 
thou shalt have praise of the same: for he is the minister of God to 
thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid ; for he 
beareth not the sword in vain : for he is the minister of God, a re- 
venger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 1 Pet. ii. 13, 14. 
Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: 
whether it be to the king, as supreme : or unto governors, as unto them 
that are sent by him for the punishment of evil-doers, and for the 
praise of them that do well. 

• Prov. viii. 15, 16. By me kings reign and princes decree justice. 
By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth. See 
letter (*), above. 

* Psa. lxxxii. 3, 4. Defend the poor and fatherless : do justice to the 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 93 

ly, now under the New Testament, wage war upon just and 
necessary occasions." 

III. Civil magistrates may not assume to themselves the 
administration of the word and sacraments ; v or the power 
of the keys of the kingdom of heaven ; w or, in the least, 
interfere in matters of faith.* Yet as nursing fathers, it 
is the duty of civil magistrates to protect the church of 
our common Lord, without giving the preference to any 
denomination of Christians above the rest, in such a man- 
ner, that all ecclesiastical persons whatever shall enjoy the 
full, free, and unquestioned liberty of discharging every 
part of their sacred functions, without violence or danger . y 
And, as Jesus Christ hath appointed a regular government 
and discipline in his church, no law of any commonwealth 
should interfere with, let, or hinder, the due exercise there- 
afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy : rid them out of the 
hand of the wicked. 2 Sam. xxiii. 3. The God of Israel said, the 
Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, 
ruling in the fear of God. See 1 Pet. ii. 13, letter ( r ), page 92. 

w Luke iii. 14. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, 
And what shall we do ? And he said unto them, Do violence to no 
man, neither accuse any falsely ; and be content with your wages. 
Matt. viii. 9. — For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under 
me : and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth ; and to another, Come, 
and he cometh : and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. Acts x. 
1, 2. Rom. xiii. 4. 

v 2 Chron. xxvi. 18. And they withstood Uzziah the king, and said 
unto him, It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn incense unto 
the Lord, but to the priests, the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to 
burn incense ; go out of the sanctuary ; for thou hast trespassed ; 
neither shall it be for thine honor from the Lord God. 

w Matt. xvi. 19. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom 
of heaven : and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth, shall be bound 
in heaven ; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, shall be loosed 
in heaven. 1 Cor. iv. 1, 2. Let a man so account of us, as of the min- 
isters of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is 
required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 

x John xviii. 36. Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world. 
Mai. ii. 7. For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they 
should seek the law at his mouth : for he is the messenger of the Lord 
of hosts. Acts v. 29. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and 
said, We ought to obey God rather than men. 

v Isa. xlix. 23. And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their 
queens thy nursing mothers. 



94 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap, xxiii. 

of, among the voluntary members of any denomination of 
Christians, according to their own profession and belief. 3 
It is the duty of civil magistrates to protect the person 
and good name of all their people, in such an effectual 
manner as that no person be suffered, either upon pretence 
of religion or of infidelity, to offer any indignity, violence, 
abuse, or injury to any other person whatsoever: and to 
take order, that all religious and ecclesiastical assemblies 
be held without molestation or disturbance.* 

IV. It is the duty of people to pray for magistrates, 6 to 
honor their persons, to pay them tribute and other dues, d 
to obey their lawful commands, and to be subject to their 
authority, for conscience' sake. 6 Infidelity or difference 
in religion, doth not make void the magistrate's just and 
legal authority, nor free the people from their due obedi- 
ence to him:-^ from which ecclesiastical persons are not 
exempted j 5 ' much less hath the Pope any power or juris- 



1 Psa. cv. 15. Touch not mine anointed, and do ray prophets no 
harm. Acts xyiii. 14, 15, at large. 

a 2 Sam. xxiii. 3. 1 Tim. ii. 1, 2, at large. Rom. xiii. 4, at large. 

* 1 Tim. ii. 1, 2. I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, 
prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men ; for 
kings, and for all that are in authority ; that we may lead a quiet and 
peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 

c 1 Pet. ii. 17. Fear God. Honor the king. 

d Rom. xiii. 6, 7. For, for this cause pay ye tribute also : for they are 
God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render 
therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to 
whom custom ; fear to whom fear ; honor to whom honor. 

e Rom. xiii. 5. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for 
wrath, but also for conscience' sake. Tit. iii. 1. Put them in mind to 
be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready 
to every good work. 

/I Pet. ii. 13, 14, 16. Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man 
for the Lord's sake : whether it be to the king, as supreme : or unto 
governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of 
evil doers, and for the praise of them that do well. — As free, and not 
using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of 
God. 

9 Rom. xiii. 1. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. 
Acts xxv. 10, 11. Then said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment-seat, 
where I ought to be judged ; to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou 
very well knowest. For if I be an offender, or have committed any 



sect, m.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 95 

diction over them in their dominions, or over any of their 
people ; and least of all to deprive them of their domin- 
ions or lives, if he shall judge them to be heretics, or upon 
any other pretence whatsoever. 71 



CHAPTEE XXIV. 

OF MARRIAGE AND DIVORCE. 

Marriage is to be between one man and one woman : 
neither is it lawful for any man to have more than one 
wife, nor for any woman to have more than one husband 
at the same time.* 

II. Marriage was ordained for the mutual help of hus- 
band and wife ; J for the increase of mankind with a legiti- 
mate issue, and of the church with an holy seed ; k and for 
preventing of uncleanness.* 

III. It is lawful for all sorts of people to marry who are 
able with judgment to give their consent ; m yet it is the 

thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die : but if there be none of 
these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto 
them. I appeal unto Caesar. 

h 2 Thess. ii. 4. Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that 
is called God, or that is worshiped ; so that he, as God, sitteth in the 
temple of God, showing himself that he is God. Rev. xiii. 15, 16, 17, 
18. And he had power to give life unto the image, etc. 

» 1 Cor. vii. 2. Mark x. 6, 7, at large. 

i Gen. ii. 18. And the Lord God said, It is not good that man should 
be alone : I will make him an help meet for him. 

* Mai. ii. 15. And did not he make one ? Yet had he the residue of 
the Spirit. And wherefore one ? That he might seek a godly seed. 
Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously 
against the wife of his youth. 

1 1 Cor. vii. 2, 9. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man 
have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.— But 
if they cannot contain, let them marry : for it is better to marry than 
to burn. 

m 1 Tim. iv. 3. Forbidding to marry. Gen. xxiv. 57, 58. And they 
said, We will call the damsel, and inquire at her mouth. And they 
called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man ? And 
she said, I will go. 



96 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xxiv. 

duty of Christians to marry only in the Lord. 71 And, 
therefore, such as profess the true reformed religion should 
not marry with infidels, Papists, or other idolaters : neither 
should such as are godly be unequally yoked, by marrying 
with such as are notoriously wicked in their life, or main- 
tain damnable heresies. 

IV. Marriage ought not to be within the degrees of con- 
sanguinity or affinity forbidden in the word ; p nor can such 
incestuous marriages ever be made lawful by any law of 
man, or consent of parties, so as those persons may live 
together, as man and wife. ?r 

V. Adultery or fornication, committed after a contract, 
being detected before marriage, giveth just occasion to the 
innocent party to dissolve that contract. 8 In the case of 
adulter} 7 after marriage, it is lawful for the innocent party 



n 1 Cor. vii. 39. The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband 
liveth ; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to 
whom she will ; only in the Lord. 

2 Cor. vi. 14. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers ; 
for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and 
what communion hath light with darkness? Gen. xxxiv. 14. Ex. 
xxxiv. 16. Compare 1 Kings xi. 4. Neh. xiii. 25, 26, 27. 

p Lev. xviii. chap. 1 Cor. v. 1. It is reported commonly that there 
is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as 
named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife. 

? Mark vi. 18. For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for 
thee to have thy brother's wife. Lev. xviii. 24, 25, 26, 27, 28. 

* Lev. xx. 19, 20, 21. And thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of 
thy mother's sister, nor of thy father's sister ; for he uncovereth his 
near kin : they shall bear their iniquity. And if a man shall lie with 
his uncle's wife, he hath uncovered his uncle's nakedness : they shall 
bear their sin ; they shall die childless. And if a man shall take his 
brother's wife, it is an unclean thing : he hath uncovered his brother's 
nakedness : they shall be childless. 

8 Matt. i. 18, 19, 20. Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise : 
When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came 
together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph 
her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public 
example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought 
on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a 
dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee 
Mary, thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy 
Ghost. 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 97 

to sue out a divorce/ aud after the divorce to marry an- 
other, as if the offending party were dead." 

VI. Although the corruption of man be such as is apt 
to study arguments, unduly to put asunder those whom 
God hath joined together in marriage; yet nothing but 
adultery, or such willful desertion as can no way be reme- 
died by the church or civil magistrate, is cause sufficient 
of dissolving the bond of marriage : v wherein a public 
and orderly course of proceeding is to be observed ; and 
the persons concerned in it, not left to their own wills and 
discretion in their own case." 



CHAPTEK XXV. 

OF THE CHURCH. 

The catholic or universal church, which is invisible, 
consists of the whole number of the elect, that have been, 



* Matt. v. 31, 32. It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his 
wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement : but I say unto you, 
that whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of for- 
nication, causeth her to commit adultery : and whosoever shall marry 
her that is divorced, committeth adultery. 

u Matt. xix. 9. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his 
wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth 
adultery ; and whoso marrieth her which is put away, doth commit 
adultery. Horn. vii. 2, 3. 

» Matt. xix. 8. He saith unto them, Moses, because of the hardness 
of your hearts, suffered you to put away your wives : but from the be- 
ginning it was not so. 1 Cor. vii. 15. But if the unbelieving depart, 
let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such 
cases: but God hath called us to peace. Matt. xix. 6. Wherefore 
they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath 
joined together, let not man put asunder. 

* Ezra x. 3. Now therefore let us make a covenant with our God, to 
put away all the wives, and such as are born of them, according to 
the counsel of my lord, and of those that tremble at the command- 
ment of our God ; and let it be done according to the law. 

7 



98 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap. xxv. 

are, or shall be gathered into one, under Christ the head 
thereof; and is the sponse, the body, the fullness of him 
that filleth all in all. x 

II. The visible church, which is also catholic or univer- 
sal under the gospel (not confined to one nation, as before 
under the law), consists of all those throughout the world, 
that profess the true religion/ together with their chil- 
dren ; * and is the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ, the 
house and family of God, 6 out of which there is no ordi- 
nary possibility of salvation. 

x Eph. i. 10, 22, 23. That in the dispensation of the fullness of times, 
he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are 
in heaven, and which are on earth ; even in him.— And hath put all 
things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to 
the church, which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in 
all. Col. i. 18. And he is the head of the body, the church. Eph. v. 
23, 27, 32. 

v 1 Cor. i. 2. Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them 
that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in 
every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs 
and ours. 1 Cor. xii. 12, 13. For as the body is one, and hath many 
members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one 
body ; so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one 
body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free ; 
and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. Psa. ii. 8. Ask of 
me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the 
uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Rom. xv. 9, 10, 11, 12. 

1 1 Cor. vii. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the 
wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband : else were 
your children unclean ; but now are they holy. Acts ii. 39. For the 
promise is unto you and to your children, and to all that are afar off, 
even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Gen. xvii. 7. And I will 
establish my covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee, 
in their generations, for an everlasting covenant ; to be a God unto 
thee, and to thy seed after thee. Rom. xi. 16. For if the first fruit be 
holy, the lump is also holy ; and if the root be holy, so are the branches. 
Gal. iii. 7, 9, 14. Rom. iv. throughout. 

a Matt. xiii. 47. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net 
that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind. Isa. ix. 7. 

b Eph. ii. 19. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, 
but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God. Eph. 
iii. 15. Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. 
Prov. xxix. 18. Where there is no vision, the people perish ; but he 
that keepeth the law, happy is he. 

c Acts ii. 47. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should 
be saved. 



sect, v.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 99 

III. Unto this catholic visible church, Christ hath given 
the ministry, oracles, and ordinances of God, for the gath- 
ering and perfecting of the saints, in this life, to the end 
of the world : and doth by his own presence and Spirit, 
according to his promise, make them effectual thereunto. d 

IV. This catholic church hath been sometimes more, 
sometimes less, visible. 6 And particular churches, which 
are members thereof, are more or less pure, according as 
the doctrine of the gospel is taught and embraced, ordi- 
nances administered, and public worship performed more 
or less purely in them/ 

V. The purest churches under heaven are subject both 
to mixture and error : 9 and some have so degenerated, as 

d Eph. iv. 11, 12, 13. And lie gave some, apostles ; and some, proph- 
ets ; and some, evangelists ; and some, pastors and teachers ; for the 
perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying 
of the body of Christ : till we all come in the nnity of the faith, and 
of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the 
measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Isa. lix. 21. As for 
me, this is my covenant with them, saith the Lord : My Spirit that is 
upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not 
depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out 
of the mouth of thy seed's seed, saith the Lord, from henceforth and 
for ever. Matt, xxviii. 19, 20. 

« Rom. xi. 3, 4. Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged 
down thine altars ; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But 
what saith the answer of God unto him ? I have reserved to myself 
seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of 
Baal. Rev. xii. 6, 14. And the woman fled into the wilderness, where 
she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a 
thousand two hundred and three score days. — And to the woman were 
given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilder- 
ness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and 
half a time, from the face of the serpent. Acts ix. 31. 

/ICor. v. 6, 7. Your glorying is not good. Know ye not, that a little 
leaven leaveneth the whole lump ? Purge out therefore the old leaven, 
that ye may he a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ 
our passover is sacrificed for us. Rev. ii. and iii. chapters throughout. 

9 l Cor. xiii. 12. For now we see through a glass darkly : but then 
face to face : now I know in part ; but then shall I know even as also 
I am known. Matt. xiii. 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 47. Another parable 
put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened 
unto a man which sowed good seed in his field ; but while men slept, 
his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. 
But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then ap- 



100 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xxvi. 

to become no churches of Christ, but synagogues of Satan.* 
Nevertheless, there shall be always a church on earth, to 
worship God according to his will.* 

VI. There is no other head of the church but the Lord 
Jesus Christ/ Nor can the Pope of Rome, in any sense be 
head thereof; but is that antichrist, that man of sin, and 
son of perdition, that exalteth himself, in the church, 
against Christ, and all that is called God.* 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

OF THE COMMUNION OF SAINTS. 

All saints that are united to Jesus Christ their head, by 
his Spirit and by faith, have fellowship with him in his 
graces, sufferings, death, resurrection, and glory : l and, 

peared the tares also, etc.— Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto 
a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind. Rev. ii. 
and iii. chapters. 

h Rev. xviii. 2. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, 
Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of 
devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean 
and hateful bird. Rom. xi. 18, 19, 20, 21, 22. 

» Matt. xvi. 18. And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter ; and 
upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not 
prevail against it. Psa. cii. 28. The children of thy servants shall 
continue, and their seed shall be established before thee. Matt, 
xxviii. 19, 20. 

i Col. i. 18. And he is the head of the body, the church : who is the 
beginning, the first-born from the dead ; that in all things he might 
have the pre-eminence. Eph. i. 22. And hath put all things under his 
feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church. 

* Matt, xxiii. 8, 9, 10. But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your 
master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. And call no man your 
father upon the earth ; for one is your Father, which is in heaven. 
Neither be ye called masters ; for one is your Master, even Christ. 2 
Thess. ii. 3, 4, etc. Let no man deceive you by any means : for that day 
shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man 
of sin be revealed, the son of perdition ; who opposeth and exalteth 
himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped ; so that he, 
as God, sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. 

1 1 John i. 3. That which we have seen and heard declare we unto 



sect, ii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 101 

being united to one another in love, they have commu- 
nion in each other's gifts and graces ; m and are obliged to 
the performance of such duties, public and private, as do 
conduce to their mutual good, both in the inward and out- 
ward man/ 1 

II. Saints, by profession, are bound to maintain an holy 
fellowship and communion, in the worship of God, and in 
performing such other spiritual services as tend to their 
mutual edification ; ° as also in relieving each other in out- 
ward things, according to their several abilities and neces- 
sities. Which communion, as God offereth opportunity, is 
to be extended unto all those, who, in every place, call upon 
the name of the Lord Jesus.^ 

you, that ye also may have fellowship with us ; and truly our fellow- 
ship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. Eph. iii. 16, 17. 
That he would grant you according to the riches of his glory, to be 
strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man ; that Christ 
may dwell in your hearts by faith. John i. 16. And of his fullness 
have all we received, and grace for grace. Phil. iii. 10. That I may 
know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of 
his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death. 

m Eph. iv. 15, 16. But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into 
him in all things, which is the head, even Christ : from whom the 
whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every 
joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of 
every part, maketh increase of the body, unto the edifying of itself in 
love. 

w 1 Thess. v. 11, 14. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and 
edify one another, even as also ye do.— Now we exhort you, brethren, 
warn them that are unruly, comfort the feeble-minded, support the 
weak, be patient toward all men. Gal . vi. 10. As we have therefore 
opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who 
are of the household of faith. 1 John iii. 16, 17, 18. 

Heb. x. 24, 25. And let us consider one another, to provoke unto 
love, and to good works : not forsaking the assembling of ourselves 
together as the manner of some is ; but exhorting one another ; and 
so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Acts ii. 42, 46. And 
they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, 
and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.— And they, continuing daily 
with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to 
house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart. Isa. 
ii. 3. 1 Cor. xi. 20. 

p 1 John iii. 17. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his 
brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from 
him, how dwelleth the love of God in him ? Acts xi. 29, 30. Then the 



102 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap, xxvii. 

III. This communion which the saints have with Christ, 
doth not make them in any wise partakers of the substance 
of his Godhead, or to be equal with Christ in any respect : 
either of which to affirm, is impious and blasphemous. 2 
Nor doth their communion one with another, as saints, 
take away, or infringe the title or property which each 
man hath in his goods and possessions/ 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

OF THE SACRAMENTS. 

Sacraments are holy signs and seals of the covenant 
of grace/ immediately instituted by God/ to represent 
Christ and his benefits, and to confirm our interest in 
him : M as also to put a visible difference between those 

disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send re- 
lief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judea : which also they did, 
and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. 2 Cor. 
viii. and ix. chapters. 

i Col. i. 18. And he is the head of the body, the church ; who is the 
beginning, the first-born from the dead ; that in all things he might 
have the pre-eminence. 1 Cor. viii. 6. But to us there is but one God, 
the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him ; and one Lord 
Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. Psa. xlv. 7. 
1 Tim. vi. 16. 

r Acts v. 4. Whiles it remained, was it not thine own ? and after it 
was sold, was it not in thine own power ? Why hast thou conceived 
this thing in thine heart ? Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto 
God. 

• Rom. iv. 11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of 
the righteousness of the faith which he had, yet being uncircumcised ; 
that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be 
not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also. 
Gen. xvii. 7. And I will establish my covenant between me and thee, 
and thy seed after thee, in their generations, for an everlasting cove- 
nant ; to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. 

* Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. 1 Cor. xi. 23. For I have received of the Lord, that which also 
I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he 
was betrayed, took bread. 

u 1 Cor. x. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the com- 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 103 

that belong unto the church, and the rest of the world ; v 
and solemnly to engage them to the service of God in 
Christ, according to his word.™ 

II. There is in every sacrament a spiritual relation, or 
sacramental union, between the sign and the thing signi- 
fied ; whence it comes to pass, that the names and effects 
of the one are attributed to the other.* 

III. The grace which is exhibited in or by the sacra- 
ments, rightly used, is not conferred by any power in 
them ; neither doth the efficacy of a sacrament depend 
upon the piety or intention of him that doth administer it/ 



munion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not 
the communion of the body of Christ? 1 Cor. xi. 25, 26. After the 
same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This 
cup is the new testament in my blood : this do ye, as oft as ye drink 
it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and 
drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come. Gal. iii. 27. 
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have put on 
Christ. 

v Ex. xii. 48. And when a stranger shall sojourn with thee, and will 
keep the passover to the Lord, let all his males be circumcised, and 
then let him come near and keep it ; and he shall be as one that is born 
in the land : for no uncircumcised person shall eat thereof. 1 Cor. 
x. 21. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils : ye 
cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. 

w Rom. vi. 3, 4. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized 
into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death ? Therefore we are 
buried with him by baptism into death ; that like as Christ was raised 
up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should 
walk in newness of life. 1 Cor. x. 2, 16. And were all baptized unto 
Moses in the cloud and in the sea.— The cup of blessing which we 
bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread 
which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ ? 

* Gen. xvii. 10. This is my covenant which ye shall keep, between 
me and you, and thy seed after thee : every man-child among you 
shall be circumcised. Matt. xxvi. 27, 28. And he took the cup, and 
gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it : for this is 
my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remis- 
sion of sins. Tit. iii. 5. Not by works of righteousness which we have 
done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of re- 
generation, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. 

v Rom. ii. 28, 29. For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly : 
neither is that circumcision which is outward in the flesh: but he is 
a Jew which is one inwardly ; and circumcision is that of the heart, 
in the spirit, and not in the letter ; whose praise is not of men, but of 



104 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap, xxvii. 

but upon the work of the Spirit/ and the word of in- 
stitution, which contains, together with a precept author- 
izing the use thereof, a promise of benefit to worthy re- 
ceivers. 

IV. There be only two sacraments ordained by Christ 
our Lord in the Gospel, that is to say, baptism and the 
supper of the Lord : neither of which may be dispensed 
by any, but by a minister of the word, lawfully ordained. 6 

V. The sacraments of the Old Testament, in regard of 
the spiritual things thereby signified and exhibited, were, 
for substance, the same with those of the New. c 

God. 1 Pet. iii. 21. The like figure whereunto, even baptism doth also 
now save us, (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the 
answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus 
Christ. 

2 Matt. iii. 11. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance : but 
he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not 
worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with 
fire. 1 Cor. xii. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one 
body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free ; 
and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 

<* Matt. xxvi. 27, 28. See letter (*), page 103. Matt, xxviii. 19. See 
letter (<), page 102, verse 20. Teaching them to observe all things what- 
soever I have commanded you : and, lo, I am with you alway, even 
to the end of the world. Amen. 

b Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. 1 Cor. xi. 20, 23. When ye come together therefore into one 
place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper.— For I have received of the 
Lord, that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the 
same night in which he was betrayed, took bread. 1 Cor. iv. 1. Let a 
man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of 
the mysteries of God. Heb. v. 4. And no man taketh this honor unto 
himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. 

c 1 Cor. x. 1, 2, 3, 4. Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should 
be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all 
passed through the sea ; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud 
and in the sea ; and did all eat the same spiritual meat ; and did all 
drink the same spiritual drink : (for they drank of that spiritual rock 
which followed them; and that rock was Christ.) 1 Cor. v. 7, 8. 
Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye 
are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us; 
therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the 
leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of 
sincerity and truth. 



sect, i.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 105 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

OF BAPTISM. 

Baptism is a sacrament of the New Testament, ordained 
by Jesus Christ,* not only for the solemn admission of the 
party baptized into the visible church, 6 but also to be unto 
him a sign and seal of the covenant of grace/ of his in- 
grafting into Christ/ of regeneration, 7 * of remission of sins,* 
and of his giving up unto God, through Jesus Christ, to 
walk in newness of life 'J which sacrament is, by Christ's 
own appointment, to be continued in his church until the 
end of the world.* 

d Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. Mark xvi. 16. 

« 1 Cor. xii. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, 
whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free ; and 
have been all made to drink into one Spirit. Gal. iii. 27, 28. 

/ Rom. iv. 11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of 
the righteousness- of the faith which he had, yet being nncircumcised ; 
that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be 
not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them 
also. Compared with Col. ii. 11, 12. In whom also ye are circumcised 
with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body 
of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ ; buried with 
him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him, through the faith 
of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 

Gal. iii. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, 
have put on Christ. Rom. vi. 5. For if we have been planted to- 
gether in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of 
his resurrection. 

* Tit. iii. 5. He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and re- 
newing of the Holy Ghost. 

» Acts ii. 38. Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every 
one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins. Mark 
i. 4. Acts xxii. 16. 

j Rom. vi. 3, 4. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized 
into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death ? Therefore we are 
buried with him by baptism into death ; that like as Christ was raised 
up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should 
walk in newness of life. 

k Matt, xxviii. 19, 20. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, bap- 
tizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost ; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have 



106 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xxvm. 

II. The outward element to be used in this sacrament is 
water, wherewith the party is to be baptized in the name 
of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, by 
a minister of the gospel, lawfully called thereunto/ 

III. Dipping of the person into the water is not neces- 
sary; but baptism is rightly administered by pouring or 
sprinkling water upon the person. m 

IV. Not only those that do actually profess faith in, and 
obedience unto Christ, 71 but also the infants of one or both 
believing parents are to be baptized. 

commanded you : and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end 
of the world. 

• Acts x. 47. Can any man forbid water, that these should not be 
baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost ? Acts viii. 36, 38. And 
as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water : and the 
eunuch said, See, here is water : what doth hinder me to be baptized ? 
—And he commanded the chariot to stand still : and they went down 
both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch ; and he baptized 
him. Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, bap- 
tizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost. 

TO Actsii. 41. Then they that gladly received his word, were bap- 
tized: and the same day there were added unto them about three 
thousand souls. Acts xvi. 33. And he took them the same hour of 
the night, and washed their stripes ; and was baptized, he and all his, 
straightway. Mark vii. 4. And when they come from the market, ex- 
cept they wash, (Greek, be baptized,) they eat not. And many other 
things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing 
(Greek. baptizing) of cups, and pots, brazen vessels, and of tables. Heb. 
ix. 10, 19, 20, 21. 

« Mark xvi. 15, 16. And he said unto them. Go ye into all the world, 
and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth, and is 
baptized, shall be saved. Acts viii. 37. And Philip said, If thou be- 
lie vest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, 
I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. 

Gen. xvii. 7, 9, with Gal. iii. 9, 14. And I will establish my cove- 
nant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee, in their genera- 
tions, for an everlasting covenant; to be a God unto thee, and to thy 
seed after thee. — And God said unto Abraham, Thou shalt keep my 
covenant therefore, thou and thy seed after thee, in their generations. 
— So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. 
—That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through 
Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through 
faith. Rom. iv. 11, 12. And he received the sign of circumcision, a 
seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had, yet being uncir- 
cumcised ; that he might be the father of all then: that believe, 



sect, vi] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 107 

V. Although it be a great sin to contemn or neglect this 
ordinance/ yet grace and salvation are not so inseparably 
annexed unto it, as that no person can be regenerated or 
saved without it, ? or that all that are baptized are undoubt- 
edly regenerated/ 

VI. The efficacy of baptism is not tied to that moment 
of time wherein it is administered ; s yet, notwithstanding, 
by the right use of this ordinance the grace promised is 
not only offered, but really exhibited and conferred by the 
Holy Ghost, to such (whether of age or infants) as that 
grace belongeth unto, according to the counsel of God's 
own will, in his appointed time.* 

though they be not circumcised. ; that righteousness might be im- 
puted unto them also : and the father of circumcision to them who 
are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of 
that faith of our father Abraham, which he had, being yet uncircum- 
cised. Acts ii. 38, 39. Repent, and be baptized every one of you in 
the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall re- 
ceive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to 
your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord 
our God shall call. Acts xvi. 14, 15, 33. Lydia, whose heart the Lord 
opened — was baptized, and her household — was baptized, he (viz. the 
jailer) and all his. Col. ii. 11, 12. 1 Cor. vii. 14. Matt, xxviii. 19. 
Mark x. 13, 14, 15, 16. Luke xviii. 15. 

p Luke vii. 30. But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel 
of God against themselves, being not baptized of him. Ex. iv. 24, 25, 
26. And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the Lord met him, 
and sought to kill him. Then Zipporah took a sharp stone, and cut 
off the foreskin of her son, and cast it at his feet, and said, Surely a 
bloody husband art thou to me. So he let him go : then she said, A 
bloody husband thou art, because of the circumcision. 

9 Rom. iv. 11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of 
the righteousness of the faith which he had, yet being uncircum- 
cised ; that he might be the father of all them that believe, though 
they be not circumcised ; that righteousness might be imputed unto 
them also. Acts x. 2, 4, 22, 31, 45, 47. 

* Acts viii. 13, 23. Then Simon himself believed also : and when he 
was baptized he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the 
miracles and signs which were done. — For I perceive that thou art in 
the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. 

s John iii. 5, 8. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be 
born of water, and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of 
God. — The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound 
thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth, so 
is every one that is born of the Spirit. 

' Gal. iii. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized iuto Christ, 



108 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xxix. 

VII. The sacrament of baptism is but once to be admin- 
istered to any person." 



CHAPTER XXIX. 

OF THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

Our Lord Jesus, in the night wherein he was betrayed 
instituted the sacrament of his body and blood, called the 
Lord's Supper, to be observed in his church unto the end 
of the world, for the perpetual remembrance of the sacri- 
fice of himself in his death, the sealing all benefits there- 
of unto true believers, their spiritual nourishment and 
growth in him, their further engagement in, and to all 
duties which they owe unto him ; and to be a bond and 
pledge of their communion with him, and with each other, 
as members of his mystical body. v 

have put on Christ. Eph. v. 25, 26. Christ also loved the church, and 
gave himself for it ; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the 
washing of water by the word. Acts ii. 38, 41. 

u Tit. iii. 5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, 
but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regener- 
ation, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. 

N. B. There is no command, and no adequate example, for the repe- 
tition of baptism. 

• 1 Cor. xi. 23, 24, 25, 26. For I have received of the Lord that which 
also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus, the same night in 
which he was betrayed, took bread : and when he had given thanks 
he brake it, and said, Take, eat ; this is my body, which is broken for 
you : this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he 
took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testa- 
ment in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance 
of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do 
show the Lord's death till he come. 1 Cor. x. 16, 17, 21. The cup of 
blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of 
Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the 
body of Christ? For we, being many, are one bread, and one body : 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 109 

II. In this sacrament Christ is not offered up to his 
Father, nor any real sacrifice made at all for remission of 
sins of the quick or dead ; w but only a commemoration of 
that once offering up of himself, by himself, upon the cross, 
once for all ; and a spiritual oblation of all possible praise 
unto God for the same : x so that the Popish sacrifice of 
the mass, as they call it, is most abominably injurious to 
Christ's one only sacrifice, the alone propitiation for all 
the sins of the electa 

III. The Lord Jesus hath, in this ordinance, appointed 
his ministers to declare his word of institution to the peo- 



for we are all partakers of that one bread.— Ye cannot drink the cup 
of the Lord, and the cup of devils : ye cannot be partakers of the 
Lord's table, and of the table of devils. 1 Cor. xii. 13. For by one 
Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gen- 
tiles, whether we be bond or free ; and have been all made to drink 
into one Spirit. 

w Heb. ix. 22, 25, 26, 28. And almost all things are by the law purged 
with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. — Nor yet 
that he should offer himself often, as the high-priest entereth into the 
holy place every year with blood of others ; for then must he often 
have suffered since the foundation of the world : but now once in the 
end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of 
himself.— So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many : and 
unto them that look for him, shall he appear the second time, without 
sin unto salvation. 

x Matt. xxvi. 26, 27. And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and 
blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, 
eat ; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and 
gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it. Luke xxii. 19, 20. And he 
took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, say- 
ing, This is my body which is given for you : this do in remembrance 
of me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the 
new testament in my blood which is shed for you. 

y Heb. vii. 23, 24, 27. And they truly were many priests, because 
they were not suffered to continue by reason of death : but this man, 
because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood.— Who 
needeth not daily, as those high-priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for 
his own sins, and then for the people's : for this he did once, when he 
offered up himself. Heb. x. 11, 12, 14, 18. And every priest stand eth 
daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which 
can never take away sins : but this man, after he had offered one sac- 
rifice for sins, for ever sat down on the right-hand of God.— For by one 
offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.— Now, 
where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. 



110 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xxix. 

pie, to pray, and bless the elements of bread and wine, and 
thereby to set them apart from a common to an holy use ; 
and to take and break the bread, to take the cup, and (they 
communicating also themselves) to give both to the com- 
municants ; z but to none who are not then present in the 
congregation." 

IV. Private masses, or receiving this sacrament by a 
priest, or any other, alone : 6 as likewise the denial of 
the cup to the people ; c worshiping the elements, the lift- 
ing them up, or carrying them about for adoration, and 
the reserving them for any pretended religious use ; are all 
contrary to the nature of this sacrament, and to the insti- 
tution of Christ.** 

V. The outward elements in this sacrament, duly set 
apart to the uses ordained by Christ, have such relation to 
him crucified, as that truly, yet sacramentally only, they 
are sometimes called by the name of the things they rep- 
resent, to wit, the body and blood of Christ ; * albeit, in 
substance and nature, they still remain truly, and only, 
bread and wine, as they were before/ 



* See the institution. Matt. xxvi. 26, 27, 28. Mark xiv. 22, 23, 24. 
Luke xxii. 19, 20, and 1 Cor. xi. 23 to 27. 

° Acts xx. 7. And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples 
came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to de- 
part on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. 1 Cor. 
xi. 20. When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to 
eat the Lord's supper. 

*> ° Because there is not the least appearance of a warrant for any of 
these things, either in precept or example, in any part of the word of 
God. See all the places in which the ordinance is mentioned ; the 
most important of which are cited above. 

* Matt. xv. 9. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doc- 
trines the commandments of men. 

* Matt. xxvi. 26, 27, 28. And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, 
and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, 
Take, eat ; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, 
and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it : for this is my blood of 
the new testament which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 

/I Cor. xi. 26, 27. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this 
cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come. Wherefore, whosoever 
shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall 
be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 



sect, viii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. Ill 

VI. That doctrine which maintains a change of the sub- 
stance of bread and wine, into the substance of Christ's 
body and blood (commonly called transubstantiation) by 
consecration of a priest, or by any other way, is repugnant, 
not to Scripture alone, but even to common sense and rea- 
son ; overthroweth the nature of the sacrament ; and hath 
been, and is the cause of manifold superstitions, yea, of 
gross idolatries.^ 

VII. Worthy receivers, outwardly partaking of the visi- 
ble elements in this sacrament/ do then also inwardly by 
faith, really and indeed, yet not carnally and corporally, 
but spiritually, receive and feed upon Christ crucified, and 
all benefits of his death : the body and blood of Christ 
being then not corporally or carnally in, with, or under 
the bread and wine ; yet as really, but spiritually, present 
to the faith of believers in that ordinance, as the elements 
themselves are to their outward senses.* 

VIII. Although ignorant and wicked men receive the 
outward elements in this sacrament, yet they receive not 
the thing signified thereby ; but by their unworthy coming 
thereunto are guilty of the body and blood of the Lord, 
to their own damnation. Wherefore all ignorant and un- 
godly persons, as they are unfit to enjoy communion with 
him, so are they unworthy of the Lord's table, and cannot, 
without great sin against Christ, while they remain such, 



o Acts iii. 21. Whom the heaven must receive until the times of res- 
titution of all things, which G-od hath spoken by the mouth of all his 
holy prophets since the world began. 1 Cor. xi. 24, 25, 26. This do in 
remembrance, of me.— This do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance 
of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do 
show the Lord's death till he come. Luke xxiv. 6, 39. He is not here, 
but is risen. Remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in 
Galilee.— Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle 
me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me 
have. 

h 1 Cor. xi. 28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat 
of that bread, and drink of that cup. 1 Cor. v. 7, 8. 

» 1 Cor. x. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the com- 
munion of the blood of Christ ? The bread which we break, is it not 
the communion of the body of Christ ? 1 Cor. x. 3, 4. 



112 CONFESSION OF FAITH. [chap, xxx 

partake of these holy mysteries/ or be admitted there- 
unto.* 



CHAPTEE XXX. 

OF CHURCH CENSURES. 

The Lord Jesus, as king and head of his church, hath 
therein appointed a government in the hand of church- 
officers, distinct from the civil magistrate.* 

**1 Cor. xi. 27, 29. Wherefore, whosoever shall eat this bread, and 
drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body 
and blood of the Lord.— For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, 
eateth and drinketh damnation (judgment) to himself, not discerning 
the Lord's body. 2 Cor. vi. 14, 15, 16. Be ye not unequally yoked to- 
gether with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with 
unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 
And what concord hath Christ with Belial ? or what part hath he that 
believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of 
God with idols ? For ye are the temple of the living God ; as God hath 
said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them ; and I will be their God, 
and they shall be my people. 1 Cor. x. 21. Ye cannot drink the cup 
of the Lord, and the cup of devils ; ye cannot be partakers of the 
Lord's table, and of the table of devils. 

* 1 Cor. v. 6, 7, 13. Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a 
little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? Purge out therefore the old 
leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even 
Christ our passover is sacrificed for us. — But them that are without, 
God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked 
person. 2 Thess. iii. 6, 14, 15. Now we command you, brethren, in the 
name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from 
every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition 
which he received of us.— And if any man obey not our word by this 
epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may 
be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a 
brother. Matt. vii. 6. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, 
neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under 
their feet, and turn again and rend you. 

1 Isa. ix. 6, 7. For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given ; 
and the government shall be upon his shoulder ; and his name shall 
be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Fa- 
ther, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and 
peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his 
kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with jus- 



sect, ii.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 113 

II. To these officers the keys of the kingdom of heaven 
are committed, by virtue whereof they have power respect- 
ively to retain and remit sins, to shut that kingdom against 
the impenitent, both by the word and censures ; and to 
open it unto penitent sinners, by the ministry of the gos- 
pel, and by absolution from censures, as occasion shall re- 
quire."* 

III. Church censures are necessary for the reclaiming 
and gaining of offending brethren ; for deterring of others 
from like offences ; for purging out of that leaven which 
might infect the whole lump; for vindicating the honor 
of Christ, and the holy profession of the gospel ; and for 
preventing the wrath of God, which might justly fall upon 
the church, if they should suffer his covenant, and the 
seals thereof, to be profaned by notorious and obstinate 
offenders . w 

tice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will 
perform this. 1 Tim. v. 17. Let the elders that rule well be counted 
worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and 
doctrine. 1 Thess. v. 12. And we beseech you. brethren, to know 
them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and ad- 
monish you. 1 Cor. xii. 28. And God hath set some in the church : 
first, apostles; secondarily, prophets; thirdly, teachers; after that, 
miracles: then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of 
tongues. Psa. ii. 6, 7, 8, 9. John xviii. 36. 

m Matt. xvi. 19. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom 
of heaven : and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth, shall be bound 
in heaven ; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, shall be loosed 
in heaven. Matt, xviii. 17, 18. And if he shall neglect to hear them, 
tell it unto the church ; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him 
be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto 
you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven ; and 
whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. John 
xx. 21, 22, 23. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you : as 
my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said 
this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy 
Ghost. Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them ; and 
whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. 2 Cor. ii. 6, 7, 8. Suffi- 
cient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many. 
So that contrariwise, ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, 
lest perhaps such an one should be swallowed up with overmuch sor- 
row. Wherefore I beseech you, that ye would confirm your love to- 
ward him. 

n 1 Cor. 5th chapter throughout. 1 Tim. v. 20. Them that sin, re- 



114 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xxxi. 

IV. For the better attaining of these ends, the officers 
of the church are to proceed by admonition, suspension 
from the sacrament of the Lord's supper for a season, and 
by excommunication from the church, according to the 
nature of the crime, and demerit of the person. 



CHAPTER XXXI. 

OF SYNODS AND COUNCILS. 

For the better government and further edification of 
the church, there ought to be such assemblies as are com- 
monly called synods or councils : p and it belongeth to the 
overseers and other rulers of the particular churches, by 
virtue of their office, and the power which Christ hath 

buke before all, that others also may fear. Matt. vii. 6. Give not that 
which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, 
lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. 

1 Tim. i. 20. Of whom is Hymeneus and Alexander; whom I have 
delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme. Jude, 
ver. 23. And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire ; hat- 
ing even the garment spotted by the flesh. 1 Cor. xi. 27, to the end. 

1 Thess. v. 12. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which 
labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you. 

2 Thess. iii. 6, 14. Now we command you, brethren, in the name of 
our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother 
that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received 
of us. — And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that 
man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. 
1 Cor. v. 4, 5, 13. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are 
gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus 
Christ, to deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the 
flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.— 
Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person. 
Matt, xviii. 17. Tit. iii. 10. 

p Acts xv. 2, 4, 6. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small 
dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and 
Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto 
the apostles and elders about this question.— And when they were 
come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apos- 
tles and elders , and they declared all things that God had done with 
them. And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of 
this matter. 



sect, iv.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 115 

given them for edification and not for destruction, to ap- 
point such assemblies ; q and to convene together in them, 
as often as they shall judge it expedient for the good of 
the church/ 

II. It belongeth to synods and councils, ministerially, to 
determine controversies of faith, and cases of conscience ; 
to set down rules and directions for the better ordering of 
the public worship of God, and government of his church ; 
to receive complaints in cases of mal-administration, and 
authoritatively to determine the same : which decrees and 
determinations, if consonant to the word of God, are to 
be received with reverence and submission, not only for 
their agreement with the word, but also for the power 
whereby they are made, as being an ordinance of God, 
appointed thereunto in his word. 3 

III. All synods or councils since the apostles' times, 
whether general or particular, may err, and many have 
erred ; therefore they are not to be made the rule of faith 
or practice, but to be used as a help in both.' 

IV. Synods and councils are to handle or conclude 
nothing, but that which is ecclesiastical : and are not to 



? Acts chap. xv. 

r Acts xv. 22, 23, 25. Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with 
the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to An- 
tioch, with Paul and Barnabas ; namely, Judas, surnamed Barsabas, 
and Silas, chief men among the brethren: and they wrote letters by 
them after this manner : The apostles, and elders, and brethren, send 
greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch, and 
Syria, and Cilicia : — It seemed good unto us, being assembled with 
one accord, to send chosen men unto you, with our beloved Barnabas 
and Paul. 

■ Acts xvi. 4. And as they went through the cities, they delivered 
them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and 
elders which were at Jerusalem. Acts xv. 15, 19, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31. 
Matt, xviii. 17, 18, 19, 20. 

* Acts xvii. 11. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, 
in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and 
searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so. 1 Cor. 
ii. 5. That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in 
the power of God. 2 Cor. i. 24. Not for that we have dominion over 
your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand. Eph. 
ii. 20. 



116 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap. xxxn. 

intermeddle with civil affairs which concern the common- 
wealth, unless by way of humble petition in cases extra- 
ordinary; or by way of advice for satisfaction of con- 
science, if they be thereunto required by the civil mag- 
istrate." 



CHAPTER XXXII. 

OF THE STATE OF MAN AFTER DEATH, AND OF THE 
RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD. 

The bodies of men, after death, return to dust, and see 
corruption ; v but their souls (which neither die nor sleep), 
having an immortal subsistence, immediately return to 
God who gave them."' The souls of the righteous, being 
then made perfect in holiness, are received into the high- 
est heavens, where they behold the face of God in light 
and glory, waiting for the full redemption of their bodies : x 

u Luke xii. 13, 14. And one of the company said unto him, Master, 
speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. And he 
said unto him, Man, who made me a judge, or a divider over you ? 
John xviii. 36. Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world. If 
my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I 
should not be delivered to the Jews : but now is my kingdom not from 
hence. 

v Gen. iii. 19. In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou 
return unto the ground : for out of it wast thou taken : for dust thou 
art, and unto dust shalt thou return. Acts xiii. 36. For David, after 
he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, 
and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption. 

w Luke xxiii. 43. And Jesus said unto him, Verily, I say unto thee, 
To-day shalt thou be with me in Paradise. Eccl. xii. 7. Then shall 
the dust return to the earth as it was ; and the spirit shall return unto 
God who gave it. 

* Heb. xii. 23. To the general assembly and church of the first-born, 
which are written in heaven, and to God the judge of all, and to the 
spirits of just men made perfect. Phil. i. 23. For I am in a strait be- 
twixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ ; which is 
far better. 1 John iii. 2. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it 
doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know, that when he 
shall appear, we shall be like him ; for we shall see him as he is. 
2 Cor. v. 1, 6, 8. 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 117 

and the souls of the wicked are cast into hell, where they 
remain in torments and utter darkness, reserved to the 
judgment of the great day. y Besides these two places 
for souls separated from their bodies, the Scripture ac- 
knowledged none. 

II. At the last day, such as are found alive shall not die, 
but be changed : * and all the dead shall be raised up with 
the self-same bodies, and none other, although with differ- 
ent qualities, which shall be united again to their souls 
for ever. a 

III. The bodies of the unjust shall, by the power of 
Christ, be raised to dishonor; the bodies of the just, by 
his Spirit, unto honor, and be made conformable to his 
own glorious body. 6 



y Luke xvi. 23, 24. And in hell tie lifted up his eyes, being in tor- 
ments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And 
he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Laza- 
rus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue ; 
for I am tormented in this flame. Jude, verses 6, 7. 

8 1 Thess. iv. 17. Then we which are alive and remain shall be 
caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the 
air ; and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 1 Cor. xv. 51, 52. Behold, 
I show you a mystery ; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be 
changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump : 
for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorrupt- 
ible, and we shall be changed. 

° Job xix. 26, 27. And though after my skin, worms destroy this 
body, yet in my flesh shall I see God : whom I shall see for myself, 
and mine eyes shall behold, and not another ; though my reins be 
consumed within me. 1 Cor. xv. 42, 43, 44. So also is the resurrection 
of the dead. It is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption : it 
is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory : it is sown in weakness, it is 
raised in power : it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. 
There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 

6 Acts xxiv. 15. And have hope toward God, which they themselves 
also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the 
just and unjust. John v. 28, 29. Marvel not at this : for the hour is 
coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 
and shall come forth ; they that have done good, unto the resurrection 
of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of dam- 
nation. Phil. iii. 21. Who shall change our vile body, that it may be 
fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working 
whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. 



118 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap, xxxiii. 

CHAPTER XXXIII. 

OF THE LAST JUDGMENT. 

God hath appointed a day, wherein he will judge the 
world in righteousness by Jesus Christ, c to whom all 
power and judgment is given of the Father.** In which 
day, not only the apostate angels shall be judged ; e but 
likewise all persons, that have lived upon earth, shall ap- 
pear before the tribunal of Christ, to give an account of 
their thoughts, words, and deeds ; and to receive accord- 
ing to what they have done in the body, whether good or 
evil/ 

II. The end of God's appointing this day is for the 
manifestation of the glory of his mercy, in the eternal 
salvation of the elect ; 9 and of his justice, in the damna- 

« Acts xvii. 31. Because he hath appointed a day in the which he 
will judge the world in righteousness, by that man whom he hath or- 
dained ; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he 
hath raised him from the dead. 

d John v. 22, 27. For the Father judgeth no man ; but hath commit- 
ted all judgment unto the Son :— and hath given him authority to exe- 
cute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. 

■ 1 Cor. vi. 3. Know ye not that we shall judge angels ? How much 
more, things that pertain to this life ? Jude, verse 6. And the angels 
which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath 
reserved in everlasting chains under darkness, unto the judgment of 
the great day. 2 Pet. ii. 4. For if God spared not the angels that sin- 
ned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of 
darkness, to be reserved unto judgment. 

/2 Cor. v. 10. For we must all appear before the judgment-seat of 
Christ ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, ac- 
cording to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Eccl. xii. 14. 
For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret 
thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Rom. ii. 16. In the 
day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, accord- 
ing to my gospel. Rom. xiv. 10, 12. But why dost thou judge thy 
brother ? or why dost thou set at naught thy brother ? for we shall all 
stand before the judgment-seat of Christ.— So then every one of us 
shall give account of himself to God. Matt. xii. 36, 37. But I say unto 
you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give ac- 
count thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt 
be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. 

9 Rom. ix. 23. And that he might make known the riches of his 



sect, in.] CONFESSION OF FAITH. 119 

tion of the reprobate, who are wicked and disobedient.* 
For then shall the righteous go into everlasting life, and 
receive that fullness of joy and refreshing which shall 
come from the presence of the Lord : i but the wicked, 
who know not God, and obey not the gospel of Jesus 
Christ, shall be cast into eternal torments, and be pun- 
ished with everlasting destruction from the presence of 
the Lord, and from the glory of his power/ 

III. As Christ would have us to be certainly persuaded 
that there shall be a day of judgment, both to deter all 
men from sin, and for the greater consolation of the godly 
in their adversity : k so will he have that day unknown to 

glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto 
glory. Matt. xxv. 21. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good 
and faithful servant ; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will 
make thee ruler over many things : enter thou into the joy of thy 
lord. 

* Rom. ii. 5, 6. But after thy hardness and impenitent heart, treas- 
urest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of 
the righteous judgment of God ; who will render to every man accord- 
ing to his deeds. 2 Thess. i. 7, 8. The Lord Jesus shall be revealed 
from heaven with his mighty angels, in naming fire, taking vengeance 
on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord 
Jesus Christ. Rom. ix. 22. 

* Matt. xxv. 31, 32, 33, 34. When the Son of man shall come in his 
glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the 
throne of his glory : and before him shall be gathered all nations ; 
and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth 
his sheep from the goats : and he shall set the sheep on his right hand, 
but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his 
right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom pre- 
pared for you from the foundation of the world. Acts iii. 19. Times 
of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. — 2 Thess. i. 7. 
And to you who are troubled, rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall 
be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels. 

i Matt. xxv. 41, 46. Then shall he say also unto them on the left 
hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for 
the devil and his angels : — and these shall go away into everlasting 
punishment. 2 Thess. i. 9. Who shall be punished with everlasting 
destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his 
power. Isa. lxvi. 24. For their worm shall not die, neither shall their 
fire be quenched. 

* 2 Pet. iii. 11, 14. Seeing then that all these things shall be dis- 
solved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversa- 
tion and godliness?— Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such 



120 CONFESSION OF FAITH, [chap, xxxiii. 

men, that they may shake off all carnal security, and be 
always watchful, because they know not at what hour the 
Lord will come; and may be ever prepared to say, Come, 
Lord Jesus, come quickly. 1 Amen. 

things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot 
and blameless. 2 Cor. v. 11. Knowing therefore the terror of the 
Lord, we persuade men : but we are made manifest unto God ; and I 
trust also are made manifest in your consciences. 2 Thess. i. 5, 6, 7. 
Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye 
may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also 
suffer : seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribula- 
tion to them that trouble you ; and to you who are troubled, rest with 
us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his 
mighty angels. Luke xxi. 27, 28. And then shall they see the Son 
of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when 
these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your 
heads ; for your redemption draweth nigh. 

1 Mark xiii. 35, 36, 37. Watch ye, therefore : for ye know not when 
the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the 
cock-crowing, or in the morning : lest, coming suddenly, he find you 
sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch. Luke 
xii. 35, 36. Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning ; 
and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will 
return from the wedding ; that, when he cometh and knocketh, they 
may open unto him immediately. Rev. xxii. 20. He which testifieth 
these things saith, Surely I come quickly ; Amen. Even so, come, 
Lord Jesus. See Matt. xxiv. 36, 42, 43, 44. 



THE 



LARGER CATECHISM, 



ADOPTED BY THE 



SYNOD OF NEW YOEK AND PHILADELPHIA, 

IN 1788. 



Q. 1. What is the chief and highest end of man f 

A. Man's chief and highest end is to glorify God, a and 
fully to enjoy him for ever. 6 

Q. 2. How doth it appear that there is a God ? 

A. The very light of nature in man, and the works of 
God, declare plainly that there is a God ; c bnt his word 
and Spirit only, do sufficiently and effectually reveal him 
unto men for their salvation.* 

a Rom. xi. 36. For of him, and through him, and to him are aU 
things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. 1 Cor. x. 31. Whether 
therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of 
God. 

b Psa. lxxiii. 24, 25, 26. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and 
afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but thee ? and 
there is none upon earth that I desire besides thee. My flesh and my 
heart faileth : but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for 
ever. John xvii. 22 and 24. The glory which thou gavest me I have 
given them.— Father, I will that they also whom thou hast given me 
be with me where I am ; that they may behold my glory, which thou 
hast given me. 

■ Rom. i. 19, 20. Because that which may be known of God, is mani- 
fest in them ; for God hath showed it unto them. For the invisible 
things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being 
understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power 
and Godhead; so that they are without excuse. See also Psa. xix. 
1, 2, 3. 

d 2 Tim. iii. 15, 16, 17. And that from a child thou hast known the 

121 



122 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Q. 3. What is the word of God f 

A. The holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament 
are the word of God, e the only rule of faith and obedience/ 

Q. 4. How doth it appear that the Scriptures are the word 
of God? 

A. The Scriptures manifest themselves to be the word 
of God, by their majesty ^ and purity ; h by the consent of 
all the parts,* and the scope of the whole, which is to give 
all glory to God;-?' by their light and power to convince 

holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation 
through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by in- 
spiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correc- 
tion, for instruction in righteousness ; that the man of God may be 
perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. 1 Cor. ii. 10. 

« 2 Tim. iii. 1G. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God. 2 Pet. 
i. 19, 20, 21. We have also a more sure word of prophecy ; whereunto 
ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark 
place, until the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts ; 
knowing this first, that no prophecy of the Scripture is of any private 
interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of 
man ; but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy 
Ghost. 

/Isa. viii. 20. To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not 
according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Luke 
xvi. 29, 31. They have Moses and the prophets ; let them hear them. 
— If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be per- 
suaded though one rose from the dead. Gal. i. 8, 9. But though we, 
or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that 
which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said 
before, so say I now again, Tf any man preach any other gospel unto 
you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. See also 2 Tim. 
iii. 15, 16, 17. 

9 Isa. lxvi. 1. Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and 
the earth is my footstool : where is the house that ye build unto me? 
and where is the place of my rest? See also Amos ix. 2, 3, 4. Psa. 
lxxvii. 

h Psa. xii. 6. The words of the Lord are pure words : as silver tried 
in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Psa. cxix. 140. Thy word 
is very pure. 

* Acts x. 43. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his 
name, whosoever belie veth in him shall receive remission of sins. 
Acts xxvi. 22. Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue 
unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other 
things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should 
come. 

.?' Rom. iii. 19, 27. Now we know, that what things soever the law 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 123 

and convert sinners, to comfort and build up believers 
unto salvation:* but the Spirit of God bearing witness 
by and with the Scriptures in the heart of man, is alone 
able fullv to persuade it that they are the very word of 
God.* 

Q. 5. What do the Scriptures principally teach ? 

A. The Scriptures principally teach, what man is to be- 
lieve concerning God, and what duty God requires of man." 1 

WHAT MAN OUGHT TO BELIEVE CONCERNING GOD. 

Q. 6. What do the Scriptures make known of God ? 

A. The Scriptures make known what God is,™ the per- 
sons in the Godhead, his decrees/ and the execution of 
his decrees. 9, 

saith, it saith to them who are under the law ; that every mouth may 
be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.— Where 
is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay; 
but by the law of faith. 

* Acts xviii. 28. For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that pub- 
licly, showing by the Scriptures, that Jesus was Christ. Heb. iv. 12. 
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any 
two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and 
spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts 
ind intents of the heart. James i. 18. Of his own will begat he us 
with the word of truth. Psa. xix. 7, 8, 9. The law of the Lord is per- 
fect, converting the soul : the testimony of the Lord is sure, making 
wise the simple, etc. 

1 John xvi. 13, 14. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he 
will guide you into all truth : and he will show you things to come. 
He shall glorify me ; for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it 
anto you. 1 John ii. 20, 27. 

m John xx. 31. But these are written, that ye might believe that Je- 
sus is the Christ, the Son of God : and that believing ye might have 
life through his name. 2 Tim. i. 13. Hold fast the form of sound 
words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love. Psa. cxix. 
L05. 

n John iv. 24. God is a Spirit. Ex. iii. 14, and xxxiv. 6, 7. 

1 John v. 7. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the 
Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost : and these three are one. 

p Acts xv. 14, 15, 18. 

9 Acts iv. 27, 28. For of a truth, against thy holy child Jesus— both 
Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, 
were gathered together, for to do whatsoever thy hand and thy coun- 
sel determined before to be done. 



124 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Q. 7. What is God? 

A. God is a Spirit/ in and of himself infinite in being,* 
glory/ blessedness/* and perfection; 17 all-sufficient/" eter- 
nal,* unchangeable^ incomprehensible, 3 every where pres- 
ent," almighty, 6 knowing all things/ most wise/ most holy/ 



r John iv. 24. God is a Spirit. 

* Ex. iii. 14. And God said unto Moses, I am that I am : and h 
Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent *«. 
unto you. Job xi. 7, 8, 9. Canst thou by searching find out God? 
canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection ? It is as high as 
heaven ; what canst thou do ? deeper than hell ; what canst thou 
know? the measure thereof is longer than the earth, and broader 
than the sea. 

t Acts vii. 2. The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, 
when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran. 

u 1 Tim. vi. 15. Which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed 
and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. 

v Matt. v. 48. Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is 
in heaven is perfect. 

"'Gen. xvii. 1. And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, 
the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty 
God: walk before me, and be thou perfect. 

* Psa. xc. 2. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou 
hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to ever- 
lasting, thou art God. 

v Mai. iii. 6. For I am the Lord, I change not : therefore ye sons of 
Jacob are not consumed. With James i. 17. 

* 1 Kings viii. 27. But will God indeed dwell on the earth ? Behold, 
the heaven, and heaven of heavens, cannot contain thee ; how much 
less this house that I have builded ! 

a Psa. cxxxix. 1, 2, 7. O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known 
me. Thou knowest my down-sitting and mine uprising ; thou under- 
standest my thought afar off.— Whither shall I go from thy Spirit ? or 
whither shall I flee from thy presence ? 

b Rev. iv. 8. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about 
him ; and they were full of eyes within ; and they rest not day and 
night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and 
is, and is to come. 

c Heb. iv. 13. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in 
his sight : but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him 
with whom we have to de. And Psa. cxlvii. 5. 

d Rom. xvi. 27. To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ, for 
ever. Amen. 

■ Isa. vi. 3. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy 
is the Lord of hosts ; the whole earth is full of his glory. Rev. xv. 4. 
Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name ? for thou only 
art holy. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 125 

most just/ most merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and 
abundant in goodness and truth. 5 

Q. 8. Are there more Gods than one f 

A. There is but one only, the living and true God.* 

Q. 9. How many persons are there in the Godhead f 

A. There be three persons in the Godhead, the Father, 
the Son, and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one 
true, eternal God, the same in substance, equal in power 
and glory; although distinguished by their personal prop- 
erties.' 

Q. 10. What are the personal properties of the three per- 
sons in the Godhead f 

A. It is proper to the Father to beget the Son/ and to 
the Son to be begotten of the Father,* and to the Holy 
Ghost to proceed from the Father and the Son, from all 
eternity. 2 

Q. 11. How doth it appear that the Son and the Holy 
Ghost are God equal with the Father? 

A. The Scriptures manifest that the Son and the Holy 

/ Deut. xxxii. 4. He is the Rock, his work is perfect ; for all his 
ways are judgment : a God of truth and without iniquity, just and 
right is he. 

9 Ex. xxxiv. 6. And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, 
The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and 
abundant in goodness and truth. 

h Deut. vi. 4. Hear, Israel ; the Lord our God is one Lord. 1 Cor. 
viii. 4. There is none other God but one. And verse 6. Jer. x. 10. 
But the Lord is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting 
King. 

* 1 John v. 7. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the 
Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost : and these three are one. 
Matt. iii. 16, 17, and xxviii. 19. 2 Cor. xiii. 14. John x. 30. 

i Heb. i. 5, 6. For unto which of the angels said he at any time, 
Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee ? And again, I will be 
to him a Father and he shall be to me a Son. John i. 14. 

* John i. 14, And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, 
(and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Fa- 
ther,) full of grace and truth. 

1 John xv. 26. But when the Comforter is come, whom I shall send 
unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth 
from the Father, he shall testify of me. Gal. iv. 6. And because ye 
are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son unto your hearts, 
crying, Abba, Father. 



126 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Ghost are God equal with the Father, ascribing unto them 
such names, 771 attributes, 71 works, and worship/ as are 
proper to God only. 

Q. 12. What are the decrees of God f 

A. God's decrees are the wise, free, and holy acts of the 
counsel of his will,* whereby, from all eternity, he hath, 

m Jer. xxiii. 6. And this is his name whereby he shall be called, 
THE LORD (or Jehovah) OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. 1 John v. 20. 
And we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is 
the true God, and eternal life. Psa. xlv. 6. Thy throne, O God, is for 
ever and ever. Acts v. 3, 4. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan 
filled thy heart to lie to the Holy Ghost ?— Thou hast not lied unto 
men, but unto God. 

n John i. 1. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with 
God, and the Word was God. Isa. ix. 6. For unto us a child is born, 
unto us a son is given ; and the government shall be upon his shoul- 
der ; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty 
God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. John ii. 24, 25. 
But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all 
men, and needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew 
what was in man. 1 Cor. ii. 10, 11. But God hath revealed them unto 
us by his Spirit : for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea the deep things 
of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit 
of man which is in him ? even so the things of God knoweth no 
man, but the Spirit of God. Heb. ix. 14. How much more shall the 
blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself with- 
out spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the 
living God ? 

Col. i. 16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, 
and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, 
or dominions, or principalities, or powers ; all things were created by 
him, and for him. Gen. i. 2^ And the earth was without form, and 
void ; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of 
God moved upon the face of the waters. Job xxvi. 13. Psa. civ. 
30, and John i. 3. 

p Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. 2 Cor. xiii. 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the 
love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. 
Amen. 

9 Eph. i. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being 
predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things 
after the counsel of his own will. Rom. ix. 15, 18. For he saith to 
Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have 
compassion on whom I will have compassion.— Therefore hath he 
mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he harden- 
eth. Rom xi. 33. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 127 

for his own glory, unchangeably fore-ordained whatsoever 
comes to pass in time/ especially concerning angels and 
men. 

Q. 13. What hath God especially decreed concerning 
angels and men? 

A. God, by an eternal and immutable decree, out of his 
mere love, for the praise of his glorious grace, to be mani- 
fested in due time, hath elected some angels to glory; 8 and 
in Christ hath chosen some men to eternal life, and the 
means thereof :' and also, according to his sovereign power, 
and the unsearchable counsel of his own will (whereby he 
extendeth or withholdeth favor as he pleaseth),hath passed 
by, and fore-ordained the rest to dishonor and wrath, to be 
for their sin inflicted, to the praise of the glory of his 
justice." 

r Eph. i. 4, 11. According as lie hath chosen us in him before the 
foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame 
before him in love. Rom. ix. 22, 23. What if God, willing to show his 
wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much long-suf- 
fering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction ; and that he might 
make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which 
he had afore prepared unto glory ? Psa. xxxiii. 11. The counsel of 
the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all genera- 
tions. 

8 1 Tim. v. 21. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, 
and the elect angels. 

* Eph. i. 4, 5, 6. According as he hath chosen us in him (viz. Christ) 
before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and with- 
out blame before him in love : having predestinated us unto the adop- 
tion of children by Jesus Christ to himself.— To the praise of the 
glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the Beloved. 
2 Thess. ii. 13, 14. But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for 
you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the begin- 
ning chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit, and 
belief of the "truth. 1 Pet. i. 2. 

u Rom. ix. 17, 18, 21, 22. For the Scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even 
for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might show my 
power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all 
the earth. — Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, 
and whom he will he hardeneth.— Hath not the potter power over the 
clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honor, and another 
unto dishonor ? Jude 4. For there are certain men crept in unawares, 
who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, 
turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the 



128 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Q. 14. How doth God execute his decrees ? 

A. God executeth his decrees in the works of creation 
and providence ; according to his infallible fore-knowledge, 
and the free and immutable counsel of his own will.* 

Q. 15. What is the work of creation ? 

A. The work of creation is that wherein God did in the 
beginning, by the word of his power, make of nothing 
the world and all things therein for himself, within the 
space of six days, and all very good.™ 

Q. 16. How did God create angels f 

A. God created all the angels, 35 spirits, y immortal/ 
holy, a excelling in knowledge, 6 mighty in power/ 5 to 
execute his commandments, and to praise his name/ yet 
subject to change. 6 



only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Matt. xi. 25, 26. 2 Tim. 
ii. 20. 

• Eph. i. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being 
predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things 
after the counsel of his own will. 

w Gen. 1st chap. Heb. xi. 3. Through faith we understand that the 
worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are 
seen were not made of things which do appear. Prov. xvi. 4. The 
Lord hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the 
day of evil. Rev. iv. 11. 

■ Col. i. 16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, 
and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, 
or dominions, or principalities, or powers ; all things were created by 
him, and for him. 

v Psa. civ. 4. Who maketh his angels spirits ; his ministers a naming 
fire. 

2 Matt. xxii. 30. For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are 
given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven. 

« Matt. xxv. 31. When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and 
all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his 
glory. 

b 2 Sam. xiv. 17. As an angel of God, so is my lord the king to dis- 
cern good and bad. Matt. xxiv. 36. 

c 2.Thess. i. 7. And to you who are troubled, rest with us, when the 
Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven, with his mighty angels. 

d Psa. ciii. 20, 21. Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, 
that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. 
Bless ye the Lord all ye his hosts ; ye ministers of his, that do his 
pleasure. 

« 2 Pet. ii. 4. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 129 

Q. 17. How did God create man f 

A. After God had made all other creatures, he created 
man, male and female ; f formed the body of the man of 
the dust of the ground/ and the woman of the rib of the 
man;* endued them with living, reasonable, and immor- 
tal souls ; * made them after his own image/ in knowledge,* 
righteousness and holiness/ having the law of God writ- 
ten in their hearts,™ and power to fulfill it, n with domin- 
ion over the creatures ; ° yet subject to fall. 1 ' 

Q. 18. What are God's ivorks of providence t 

A. God's works of providence are his most holy/ wise/ 
and powerful preserving/ and governing all his creat- 

them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be 
reserved unto judgment. 

/Gen. i. 27. So God created man in his own image, in the image of 
God created he him ; male and female created he them. 

9 Gen. ii. 7. And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the 
ground. 

h Gen. ii. 22. And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, 
made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. 

» Gen. ii. 7. And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, 
and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life ; and man became a 
living soul. Compared with Job xxxv. 11. Eccl. xii. 9. Matt. x. 28. 
Luke xxiii. 43. 

i Gen. i. 27. So God created man in his own image, in the image of 
God created he him. 

* Col. iii. 10. 

* Eph. iv. 24. 

m Rom. ii. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, 
do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the 
law, are a law unto themselves ; which show the work of the law 
written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and 
their thoughts the meanwhile accusing or else excusing one an- 
other. 

n Eccl. vii. 29. God hath made man upright. 

*Gen. i. 28. 

p Gen. iii. 6. Eccl. vii. 29. 

2 Psa. cxlv. 17. The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in 
all his works. 

r Psa. civ. 24. O Lord, how manifold are thy works ! in wisdom hast 
thou made them all. Isa. xxviii. 29. This also cometh forth from the 
Lord of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in work- 
ing. 

■ Heb. i. 3. Who, being the brightness of his glory, and the express 
image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his 
power. 



130 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

ures;' ordering them, and all their actions," to his own 
glory.* 

Q. 19. What is God's providence toward the angels ? 

A. God by his providence permitted some of the angels, 
willfully and irrecoverably, to fall into sin and damna- 
tion, 1 " limiting and ordering that, and all their sins, to his 
own glory ; x and established the rest in holiness and hap- 
piness ; y employing them all/ at his pleasure, in the ad- 
ministration of his power, mercy, and justice.* 

Q. 20. What was the providence of God toward man in 
the estate in which he ivas created? 

A. The providence of God toward man in the estate in 
which he was created, was, the placing him in paradise, 
appointing him to dress it, giving him liberty to eat of the 
fruit of the earth, 6 putting the creatures under his domin- 
ion, and ordaining marriage for his help ; d affording him 



* Psa. ciii. 19. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens ; 
and his kingdom ruleth over all. 

tt Matt. x. 29, 30. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one 
of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the 
very hairs of your head are all numbered. Gen. xlv. 7. And God sent 
me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save 
your lives by a great deliverance. 

v Rom. xi. 36. For of him, and through him, and to him, are all 
things; to whom be glory for ever. Amen. Isa. lxiii. 14. So didst 
thou lead thy people, to make thyself a glorious name. 

w Jude 6. And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left 
their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains, under 
darkness, unto the judgment of the great day. 2 Pet. ii. 4. Heb. ii. 

16. John viii. 44. 

* Job i. 12. And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath 
is in thy power ; only upon himself put not forth thy hand. Luke x. 

17. Matt. viii. 31. 

v 1 Tim. v. 21. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, 
and the elect angels. Mark viii. 38. Heb. xii. 22. 

z Psa. civ. 4. Who maketh his angels spirits ; his ministers a flaming 
fire. 

° Heb. i. 14. Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to min- 
ister for them who shall be heirs of salvation ? 2 Kings xix. 35. 

* Gen. ii. 8, 15, 16. 

* Gen. i. 28. 

* Gen. ii. 18. And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man 
should be alone ; I will make him an help meet for him. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM, 131 

communion with himself, 6 instituting the Sabbath/ enter- 
ing into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of 
personal, perfect, and perpetual obedience/ of which the 
tree of life was a pledge ; h and forbidding to eat of the tree 
of the knowledge of good and evil, upon the pain of death.* 

Q. 21. Did man continue in that estate wherein God at first 
created him f 

A. Our first parents being left to the freedom of their 
own will, through the temptation of Satan, transgressed 
the commandment of God, in eating the forbidden fruit, 
and thereby fell from the estate of innocency wherein 
they were created/ 

Q. 22. Did all mankind fall in that first transgression f 

A. The covenant being made with Adam, as a public 
person, not for himself only, but for his posterity ; all 
mankind descending from him by ordinary generation,* 
sinned in him, and fell with him in that first transgression.* 

« Gen. i. 27, 28. 

/ Gen. ii. 3. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it ; be- 
cause that in it he had rested from all his work which God created 
and made. 

ff Rom. v. 14. Adam — who is the figure of him that was to come. 
Compared with 1 Cor. xv. 22, 47. Hosea vi. 7. Gal. iii. 12. And the 
law is not of faith : but The man that doeth them shall live in them. 
Rom. x. 5. Gal. iii. 10. 

h Gen. ii. 9. And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every 
tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food : the tree of life 
also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good 
and evil. 

* Gen. ii. 17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou 
shalt not eat of it : for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt 
surely die. 

j Gen. iii. 6, 7, 8, 13. And when the woman saw that the tree was 
good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be de- 
sired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and 
gave also unto her husband with her ; and he did eat. — And they knew 
that they were naked.— And Adam and his wife hid themselves from 
the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. — And 
the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? 
And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. 2 Cor. 
xi. 3. Eccl. vii. 29. 

* Acts xvii. 26. And hath made of one blood all nations of men. 

1 Gen. ii. 17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou 
shalt not eat of it; for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt 



132 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Q. 23. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind? 

A. The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and 
misery."* 

Q. 24. What is sin f 

A. Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression 
of any law of God, given as a rule to the reasonable creature.** 

Q. 25. Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate where- 
into man fell f 

A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, con- 
sisteth in the guilt of Adam's first sin, the want of that 
righteousness wherein he was created, and the corruption 
of his nature, whereby he is utterly indisposed, disabled, 
and made opposite unto all that is spiritually good, and 
wholly inclined to all evil, and that continually ; p which 
is commonly called original sin, and from which do pro- 
ceed all actual transgressions. 7 

surely die. Compared with Rom. v. 12 to 20 verse, and with 1 Cor. xv. 
21, 22. 

w Rom. v. 12. Wherefore as by one man sin entered into the world, 
and death by sin ; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have 
sinned. Gal. iii. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law, are 
under the curse ; for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth 
not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. 

n Rom. iii. 23. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. 
1 John iii. 4. Sin is the transgression of the law. Gal. iii. 10-12. 

Rom. v. 12, 19. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the 
world, and death by sin ; and so death passed upon all men, for that 
all have sinned.— By one man's disobedience many were made sin- 
ners. 1 Cor. xv. 22. 

p Rom. v. 6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time 
Christ died for the ungodly. Rom. iii. 10 to 20. As it is written, There 
is none righteous, no, not one : there is none that understandeth, there 
is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, 
they are together become unprofitable ; there is none that doeth good, 
no, not one, etc. Eph. ii. 1, 2, 3. And you hath he quickened, who 
were dead in trespasses and sins, etc. Rom. viii. 7, 8. Because the 
carnal mind is enmity against God ; for it is not subject to the law of 
God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh, cannot 
please God. Gen. vi. 5. And God saw that the wickedness of man was 
great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his 
heart was only evil continually. 

?. James i. : ' 15. But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away 
of his own lust and enticed. Then, when lust hath conceived, it 
bringeth forth sin ; and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 133 

Q. 26. How is original sin conveyed from our first parents 
unto their posterity f 

A. Original sin is conveyed from our first parents unto 
their posterity by natural generation, so as all that pro- 
ceed from them in that way, are conceived and born in 
sin/ 

Q. 27. What misery did the fall bring upon mankind? 

A. The fall brought upon mankind the loss of com- 
munion with God, s his displeasure and curse; so as we 
are by nature children of wrath/ bond-slaves to Satan, M 
and justly liable to all punishments in this world and that 
which is to corned 

Q. 28. What are the punishments of sin in this world f 

A. The punishments of sin in this world, are either 
inward, as blindness of mind, w a reprobate sense,* strong 

Matt. xv. 19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, 
adulteries, fornication, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. 

r Psa. li. 5. Behold, I was shapen in iniquity ; and in sin did my 
mother conceive me. Job xiv.4. Who can bring a clean thing out of 
an unclean? not one. Job xv. 14. What is man, that he should be 
clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be right- 
eous ? John iii. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh. 

8 Gen. iii. 8, 24. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking 
in the garden in the cool of the day : and Adam and his wife hid 
themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of 
the garden.— So he drove out the man ; and he placed at the east of 
the garden of Eden cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned 
every way, to keep the way of the tree of life. 

* Eph. ii. 2, 3. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the 
course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, 
the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience : among 
whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of 
our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind ; and were 
by nature the children of wrath, even as others. 

u 2 Tim. ii. 26. And that they may recover themselves out of the 
snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. Luke 
xi. 21, 22. Heb. ii. 14. 

v Rom. vi. 23. The wages of sin is death. Rom. v. 14. Gen. ii. 17. 

* Eph. iv. 18. Having the understanding darkened, being alienated 
from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because 
of the blindness of their heart. 

* Rom. i. 28. Even as they did not like to retain God in their knowl- 
edge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things 
which are not convenient. 



134 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

delusions/ hardness of heart/ horror of conscience/ and 
vile affections : 6 or outward, as the curse of God upon the 
creatures for our sake ; c and all other evils that befall us in 
our bodies, names, estates, relations, and employments ; d 
together with death itself. 6 

Q. 29. What are the punishments of sin in the world to 
come f 

A. The punishments of sin in the world to come are, 
everlasting separation from the comfortable presence of 
God, and most grievous torments in soul and body, with- 
out intermission, in hell-fire for ever/ 

Q. 30. Doth God leave all mankind to perish in the estate 
of sin and misery ? 

A. God doth not leave all men to perish in the estate of 



v 2 Thess. ii. 11. And for this cause God shall send them strong de- 
lusion, that they should believe a lie. 

■ Rom. ii. 5. But after thy hardness and impenitent heart, treasurest 
up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the 
righteous judgment of God. 

a Isa. xxxiii. 14. The sinners in Zion are afraid; fearfulness hath 
surprised the hypocrites. Who among us shall dwell with the devour- 
ing fire ? Who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings ? Gen. 
iv. 13, 14. Matt, xxvii. 4. Heb. x. 27. 

b Rom. i. 26. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affec- 
tions. 

c Gen. iii. 17. Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy 
wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, 
Thou shalt not eat of it : cursed is the ground for thy sake ; in sorrow 
shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life. 

d Deut. xxviii. 15, to the end. If thou wilt not hearken unto the 
voice of the Lord thy God— all these curses shall come upon thee : — 
Cursed shalt thou be in the city, etc. 

« Rom. vi. 21, 23. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye 
are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.— The wages 
of sin is death. 

/2 Thess. i. 9. Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction 
from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power. 
Mark ix. 43, 44. To go into hell— where their worm dieth not, and the 
fire is not quenched. Luke xvi. 24, 26. Send Lazarus, that he may 
dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue ; for I am tor- 
mented in this flame.— Between us and you there is a great gulf fixed : 
so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot ; neither can 
they pass to us, that would come from thence. Matt. xxv. 41, 46. Rev. 
xiv. 11. John iii. 36. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 135 

sin and misery/ into which they fell by the breach of the 
first covenant, commonly called the covenant of works : n 
but of his mere love and mercy delivereth his elect out 
of it, and bringeth them into an estate of salvation by 
the second covenant, commonly called the covenant of 
grace.' » 

Q. 31. With whom was the covenant of grace made f 

A. The covenant of grace was made with Christ as the 
second Adam, and in him with all the elect as his seed/ 

Q. 32. How is the grace of God manifested in the second 
covenant f 

A. The grace of God is manifested in the second cove- 
nant, in that he freely provideth and offereth to sinners a 
mediator,* and life and salvation by him ; l and requiring 



9 1 Thess. y. 9. For God hath not appointed ns to wrath, but to ob- 
tain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ. 

h Gal. iii. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law are under 
the curse : for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in 
all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. 

* Tit. iii. 4, 5, 6, 7. But after that the kindness and love of God our 
Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which 
we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing 
of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost ; which he shed on 
us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour : that being justified 
by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eter- 
nal life. Tit. i. 2. In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, 
promised before the world began. Gal. iii. 21. Rom. iii. 20, 21, 22. 

i Gal. iii. 16. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. 
He saith not, And to seeds, as of many: but as of one, And to thy 
seed, which is Christ. Isa. lix. 21. As for me, this is my covenant 
with them, saith the Lord ; My Spirit that is upon thee, and my words 
which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, 
nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed's 
seed, saith the Lord, from henceforth and for ever. Zech. vi. 13. 
Luke xxii. 29. 2 Sam. xxiii. 5. Rom. v. 15, to the end. 

* Gen. iii. 15. And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, 
and between thy seed and her seed : it shall bruise thy head, and thou 
shalt bruise his heel. Isa. xlii. 6. I the Lord have called thee in 
righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give 
thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles. John 
vi. 27. Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat 
which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall 
give unto you : for him hath God the Father sealed. 1 Tim. ii. 5. 

1 1 John v. 11, 12. And this is the record, That God hath given to us 



136 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

faith as the condition to interest them in him/* promiseth 
and giveth his Holy Spirit to all his elect," to work in them 
that faith, with all other saving graces ; p and to enable 
them unto all holy obedience, 3 as the evidence of the 
truth of their faith, 7 * and thankfulness to God, 8 and as 
the way which he hath appointed them to salvation.* 

Q. 33. Was the covenant of grace always administered 
after one and the same manner? 

A. The covenant of grace was not always administered 
after the same manner, but the administrations of it under 
the Old Testament were different from those under the 
New." 

Q. 34. How was the covenant of grace administered under 
the Old Testament ? 

A. The covenant of grace was administered under the 

eternal life ; and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son, hath 
life. 

m John iii. 16. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only he- 
gotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but 
have everlasting life. John i. 12. But as many as received him, to 
them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that be- 
lieve on his name. Chap. iii. 36. 

n Prov. i. 23. Behold, I will pour out my Spirit unto you, I will 
make known my words unto you. Isa. lix. 21. Zech. xii. 10. 

2 Cor. iv. 13. We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is 
written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken ; we also believe, and 
therefore speak. 

p Gal. v. 22, 23. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long- 
suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance : against 
such there is no law. 

? Ezek. xxxvi. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause 
you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do 
them. 

* James ii. 18, 22. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have 
works : show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee 
my faith by my works.— Seest thou how faith wrought with his works 
and by works was faith made perfect ? 

* 2 Cor. v. 1-4, 15. For the love of Christ constraineth us, etc. 

' Eph. ii. 10. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus 
unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should 
walk in them. Tit. ii. 14, and iii. 8. 

u 2 Cor. iii. 6. Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testa- 
ment : not of the letter, but of the spirit. Heb. i. 1, 2, chap. viii. 7, 
8, etc. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 137 

Old Testament, by promises," prophecies," 7 sacrifices,* cir- 
cumcision/ the passover,* and other types and ordinances; 
which did all fore-signify Christ then to come, and were 
for that time sufficient to build up the elect in faith in the 
promised Messiah," by whom they then had full remis- 
sion of sin and eternal salvation. 6 

Q. 35. How is the covenant of grace administered under 
the New Testament f 

A. Under the New Testament, when Christ the sub- 
stance was exhibited, the same covenant of grace was 
and still is to be administered in the preaching of the 
word, c and the administration of the sacraments of bap- 
tism/ and the Lord's supper ; e in which grace and salva- 
tion are held forth in more fullness, evidence and efiicacy 
to all nations/ 

Q. 36. Who is the Mediator of the covenant of grace f 

A. The only Mediator of the covenant of grace is the 
Lord Jesus Christ/ who being the eternal Son of God, of 

v Rom. xv. 8. Now I say, that Jesus Christ was a minister of the 
circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto 
the fathers. Acts iii. 20. 

«• Acts iii. 20, 24. 

* Heb. x. 1. 

v Rom. iv. 11. 

* 1 Cor. v. 7. Ex. xii. 14, 17, 24. 

a Heb. xi. 13. These all died in faith, not having received the prom- 
ises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and 
embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims 
on the earth. Heb. viii. ix. and x. chapters 

b Gal. iii. 7, 8, 9, 14. 

c Mark xvi. 15. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, 
and preach the gospel to every creature. 

d Matt, xxviii. 19, 20. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, bap- 
tizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost. 

o 1 Cor. xi. 23, 24, 25, 26. For T have received of the Lord, that which 
also I delivered unto you, etc. This do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in re- 
membrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this 
cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come. [Till he come to judg- 
ment : for he had come in the Spirit long before this time.] See also 
the gospels. 

/2Cor. iii. 6. 

9 1 Tim. ii. 5. For there is one God, and one Mediator between God 
and men, the man Christ Jesus. 



138 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

one substance and equal with the Father/ in the fullness 
of time became man,* and so was, and continues to be 
God and man in two entire distinct natures, and one per- 
son for ever/ 

Q. 37. How did Christ, being the Son of God, become 
man f 

A. Christ the Son of God became man, by taking to 
himself a true body, and a reasonable soul/ being con- 
ceived by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the womb of 
the Virgin Mary, of her substance, and born of her/ yet 
without sin. m 

Q. 38. Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be 
Godf 

A. It was requisite that the Mediator should be God, 
that he might sustain and keep the human nature from 
sinking under the infinite wrath of God, and the power 
of death ; " give worth and efficacy to his sufferings, obe- 

h John i. 1. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with 
God, and the Word was God. John x. 30. I and my Father are one. 
Phil. ii. 6. Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to 
be equal with God. 

» Gal. iv. 4. But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent 
forth his Son, made of a woman. 

i Luke i. 35. That holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be 
called the Son of God. Rom. ix. 5. Whose are the fathers, and of 
whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God 
blessed for ever. Amen. Col. ii. 9. For in him dwelleth all the full- 
ness of the Godhead bodily. 

* John i. 14. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us. 
Matt. xxvi. 38. My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death. 

1 Luke i. 31, 35, 42. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, 
and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.— The Holy Ghost 
shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow 
thee ; therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee, shall 
be called the Son of God.— Blessed art thou among women, and blessed 
is the fruit of thy womb. Gal. iv. 4. God sent forth his Son, made of 
a woman. 

m Heb. iv. 15. For we have not an high priest which cannot be 
touched with the feeling of our infirmities ; but was in all points 
tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Heb. vii. 26. For such an 
high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate 
from sinners. 

n Acts ii. 24. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of 
death : because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 139 

dience, and intercession ; ° and to satisfy God's justice,* 
procure his favor,* purchase a peculiar people/ give his 
Spirit to them/ conquer all their enemies/ and bring them 
to everlasting salvation.^ 

Q. 39. Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be 
man f 

A. It was requisite that the Mediator should be man, 
that he might advance our nature/ perform obedience to 
the law,™ suffer and make intercession for us in our nature/ 



Rom. i. 4. Declared to be the Son of God with power, according to 
the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. 

Acts xx. 28. To feed the church of God, which he hath purchased 
with his own blood. Heb. ix. 14.— How much more shall the blood of 
Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to 
God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 
Heb. vii. 25, 26, 27, 28. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the 
uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make 
intercession for them, etc. 

p Rom. iii. 24, 25, 26. Being justified freely by his grace, through the 
redemption that is in Christ Jesus : whom God hath set forth to be a 
propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness 
for the remission of sins.— That he might be just, and the justifier of 
him which belie veth in Jesus. 

9 Eph. i. 6. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath 
made us accepted in the Beloved. 

r Tit. ii. 14. Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from 
all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of 
good works. 

8 John xv. 26. But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send 
unto you from the Father. John xvi. 7 ; xiv. 26. 

* Luke i. 69, 71, 74. And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us— 
that we should be saved from our enemies, etc. 

u Heb. v. 9. He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them 
that obey him. Chap. ix. 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. 

v Heb. ii. 16. For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; 
but he took on him the seed of Abraham. 

w Gal. iv. 4. God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under 
the law. Rom. v. 19. By the obedience of one shall many be made 
righteous. 

x Heb. ii. 14. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh 
and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that 
through death he might destroy him that had the power of death. 
Heb. vii. 24, 25. But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an 
unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to 
the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to 
make intercession for them. 



140 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

have a fellow-feeling of our infirmities ; y that we might 
receive the adoption of sons/ and have comfort and access 
with boldness unto the throne of grace." 

Q. 40. Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be 
God and man in one person f 

A. It was requisite that the Mediator, who was to recon- 
cile God and man, should himself be both God and man, 
and this in one person ; that the proper works of each 
nature might be accepted of God for us, 6 and relied on 
by us, as the works of the whole person. 

Q. 41. Why was our Mediator called Jesus ? 

A. Our Mediator was called Jesus, because he saveth his 
people from their sins. d 

Q. 42. Why was our Mediator called Christ f 

A. Our Mediator was called Christ, because he was 
anointed with the Holy Ghost above measure ; e and so 
set apart, and fully furnished with all authority and 
ability/ to execute the office of prophet/ priest/ and king 

v Heb. iv. 15. For we have not an high priest which cannot be 
touched with the feeling of our infirmities ; but was in all points 
tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 

z Gal. iv. 5. To redeem them that were under the law, that we might 
receive the adoption of sons. 

° Heb. iv. 16. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, 
that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. 

6 Matt. i. 23. Behold, a virgin— shall bring forth a son, and they 
shall call his name Emmanuel, which, being interpreted, is, God with 
us. Matt iii. 17. This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 

« 1 Pet. ii. 6. Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner-stone, elect, pre- 
cious : and he that belie veth on him shall not be confounded. 

d Matt. i. 21. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his 
name JESUS ; for he shall save his people from their sins. 

e John iii. 34. God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. Psa. 
xlv. 7. God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness 
above thy fellows. 

/John vi. 27. Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that 
meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man 
shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. Matt, 
xxviii. 19, 20. 

9 Acts iii. 22. For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall 
the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me ; 
him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 
Luke iv. 18, 21. 

h Heb. v. 5, 6. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 141 

of his church, in the estate both of his humiliation and 
exaltation/ 

Q. 43. How doth Christ execute the office of a prophet ? 

A. Christ executeth the office of a prophet, in his re- 
vealing to the church in all ages/ by his Spirit and word,* 
in divers ways of administration/ the whole will of God, m 
in all things concerning their edification and salvation/ 4 

Q. 44. How doth Christ execute the office of a priest ? 

A. Christ executeth the office of a priest, in his once 
offering himself a sacrifice without spot to God, to be a 
reconciliation for the sins of his people ; p and in making 
continual intercession for them. 9, 

high priest ; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to-day have 
I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest 
for ever after the order of Melchisedec. Heb. iv. 14, 15. 

» Isa. ix. 6, 7. The government shall be upon his shoulder.— Of the 
increase of his government and peace there shall be no end. Psa. 
ii.6. 

i John i. 18. No man hath seen God at any time ; the only begotten 
Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. 

* 1 Pet. i. 10, 12. Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and 
searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come 
unto you.— Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but 
unto us they did minister the things which are now reported unto 
you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy 
Ghost sent down from heaven. 

1 Heb. i. 1, 2. God, who at sundry times and in divers manners 
spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last 
days spoken unto us by his Son. 

m John xv. 15. But I have called you friends ; for all things that I 
have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. 

n Eph. iv. 11, 12, 13. And he gave some, apostles ; and some, proph- 
ets ; and some, evangelists ; and some, pastors and teachers ; for the 
perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying 
of the body of Christ : till we all come in the unity of the faith, and 
of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the 
measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. John xx. 31. 

Heb. ix. 14, 28. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who 
through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge 
your conscience ?— So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many. 

p Heb. ii. 17. That he might be a merciful and faithful high-priest 
in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the 
people. 

9 Heb. vii. 25. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the utter- 
most that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make inter- 
cession for them. 



142 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Q. 45. How doth Christ execute the office of a king ? 

A. Christ executeth the office of a king, in calling out 
of the world a people to himself; r and giving them 
officers, 8 laws,* and censures, by which he visibly governs 
them ; u in bestowing saving grace upon his elect,* reward- 
ing their obedience/" and correcting them for their sins, 3 * 
preserving and supporting them under all their tempta- 
tions and sufferings/ restraining and overcoming all their 
enemies/ and powerfully ordering all things for his own 
glory, a and their good ; b and also in taking vengeance on 
the rest, who know not God, and obey not the gospel. 

r Isa. lv. 5. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not ; 
and nations that knew not thee, shall run unto thee, because of the 
Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel ; for he hath glorified 
thee. Gen. xlix. 10. 

* 1 Cor. xii. 28. And God hath set some in the church ; first apostles, 
secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts 
of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Eph. iv. 11, 12. 

* Isa. xxxiii. 22. For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, 
the Lord is our king ; he will save us. 

u Matt, xviii. 17, 18. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto 
the church : but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee 
as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever 
ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven : and whatsoever ye 
shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 1 Cor. v. 4, 5. 1 Tim. 
v. 20. Tit. iii. 10. 

* Acts v. 31. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a 
Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness 
of sins. Psa. lxviii. 18. 

w Rev. xxii. 12. And behold, I come quickly ; and my reward is with 
me, to give every man according as his work shall be. Matt. xxv. 34, 
35, 36. Rom. ii. 7. 

* Rev. iii. 19. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Heb. xii. 6, 7. 
y Isa. lxiii. 9. In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel 

of his presence saved them : in his love and in his pity he redeemed 
them ; and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old. 

* 1 Cor. xv. 25. For he must reign till he hath put all enemies under 
his feet. Psa. ex. throughout. 

« Rom. xiv. 11. As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to 
me, and every tongue shall confess to God. Phil. ii. 11. And that 
every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of 
God the Father. 

b Rom. viii. 28. And we know that all things work together for good 
to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his 
purpose. 

c 2 Thess. i. 8. In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 143 

Q. 46. What was the estate of Christ 1 s humiliation ? 

A. The estate of Christ's humiliation was that low con- 
dition, wherein he, for our sakes, emptying himself of his 
glory, took upon him the form of a servant, in his con- 
ception and birth, life, death, and after his death until his 
resurrection.^ 

Q. 47. How did Christ humble himself in his conception 
and birth? 

A. Christ humbled himself in his conception and birth, 
in that, being from all eternity the Son of God in the 
bosom of the Father, he was pleased in the fullness of 
time to become the son of man, made of a woman of low 
estate, and to be born of her, with divers circumstances of 
more than ordinary abasement/ 

Q. 48. How did Christ humble himself in his life f 

A. Christ humbled himself in his life, by subjecting 
himself to the law/ which he perfectly fulfilled/ and by 
conflicting with the indignities of the world/ temptations 
of Satan/ and infirmities in his flesh, whether common to 



not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Psa. 
ii. 9. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron ; thou shalt dash them 
in pieces like a potter's vessel. 

d Phil. ii. 6, 7, 8. Who, being in the form of God, thought it not rob- 
bery to be equal with God ; but made himself of no reputation, and 
took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of 
men ; and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and 
became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 2 Cor. viii. 
9. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he 
was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his pov- 
erty might be rich. Luke i. 31. Acts ii. 24. 

• John i. 14, 18. The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.— 
The only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father. Luke 
ii. 7. And she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in 
swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger. 

/ Gal. iv. 4. God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under 
the law. 

9 Matt. v. 17. Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the 
prophets : I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. Rom. v. 19. 

h Psa. xxii. 6. But I am a worm, and no man ; a reproach of men, 
and despised of the people. Isa. liii. 2, 3. Heb. xii. 2, 3. 

» Matt. iv. 1 to 12. Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wil- 
derness to be tempted of the devil, etc. Luke iv. 1 to 14. 



144 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

the nature of man or particularly accompanying that hia 
low condition/ 

Q. 49. How did Christ humble himself in his death f 

A. Christ humbled himself in his death, in that having 
been betrayed by Judas/ forsaken by his disciples/ scorned 
and rejected by the world,™ condemned by Pilate, and tor- 
mented by his persecutors ; n having also conflicted with 
the terrors of death and the powers of darkness, felt and 
borne the weight of God's wrath, he laid down his life an 
offering for sin/ enduring the painful, shameful, and cursed 
death of the cross. 5 

Q. 50. Wherein consisted Christ's humiliation after his 
death ? 

A. Christ's humiliation after his death, consisted in his 
being buried/ and continuing in the state of the dead, and 
under the power of death till the third day/ which hath 
been otherwise expressed in these words, He descended 
into hell. 



i Heb. ii. 17, 18. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made 
like unto his brethren.— For in that he himself hath suffered, being 
tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted. Heb. iv. 15. 
Isa. Hi. 14. 

* Matt, xxvii. 4. 

' Matt. xxvi. 56. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled. 

m Isa. liii. 3. He is despised and rejected of men ; a man of sorrows, 
and acquainted with grief; and we hid as it were our faces from him: 
he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 

» Matt, xxvii. 26. And when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered 
him to be crucified. John xix. 34. Luke xxii. 63, 64. 

Luke xxii. 44. And being in an agony, he prayed more earnestly : 
and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the 
ground. Matt, xxvii. 46. And about the ninth hour, Jesus cried with 
a loud voice,— Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?— My God, my God, why hast 
thou forsaken me? Rom. viii. 32. 

p Isa. liii. 10. Thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin. 

<j Phil. ii. 8. And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled him- 
self, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 
Heb. xii. 2. Gal. iii. 13. 

' 1 Cor. xv. 3, 4. 

• Matt. xii. 40. For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the 
whale's belly ; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights 
in the heart of the earth. Psa. xvi. 10, compared with Acts ii. 24, 25, 
26. Rom. vi. 9. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 145 

Q. 51. What was the estate of Christ's exaltation f 

A. The estate of Christ's exaltation comprehendeth his 
resurrection/ ascension, 1 * sitting at the right hand of the 
Father/ and his coming again to judge the world." 

Q. 52. How was Christ exalted in his resurrection ? 

A. Christ was exalted in his resurrection, in that, not 
having seen corruption in death (of which it was not pos- 
sible for him to be held) x and having the very same body 
in which he suffered, with the essential properties thereof y 
(but without mortality and other common infirmities be- 
longing to this life) really united to his soul/ he rose again 
from the dead the third day by his own power ; a whereby 
he declared himself to be the Son of God, 6 to have satis- 
fied divine justice, to have vanquished death and him that 
had the power of it, d and to be Lord of quick and dead. 6 
All which he did as a public person/ the head of his 

* 1 Cor. xv. 4. And that he rose again the third day, according to 
the Scriptures. 

•* Mark xvi. 19. So then, after the Lord had spoken unto them, he 
was received up into heaven. 

v Eph. i. 20. And set him at his own right hand. 

w Acts i. 11. This same Jesus which is taken up from you into heav- 
en, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. 
Acts xvii. 31. 

* Acts ii. 24. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of 
death : because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. 
Psa. xvi. 10. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell : neither wilt 
thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 

y Luke xxiv. 39. Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: 
handle me, and see ; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me 
have. 

z Rev. i. 18. I am he that liveth, and was dead ; and, behold, I am 
alive for evermore ; Amen : and have the keys of hell and of death. 

a John x. 18. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of my- 
self. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. 

b Rom. i. 4. And declared to be the Son of God with power, accord- 
ing to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. 

c Rom. viii. 34. Who is he that condemneth ? it is Christ that died, 
yea, rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God. 

d Heb. ii. 14. That through death he might destroy him that had the 
power of death, that is, the devil. 

* Rom. xiv. 9. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and re- 
vived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. 

/I Cor. xv. 21, 22. For since by man came death, by man came also 

10 



146 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

church/ for their justification, 7 * quickening in grace/ sup- 
port against enemies/ and to assure them of their resur- 
rection from the dead at the last day.* 

Q. 53. How was Christ exalted in his ascension f 
A. Christ was exalted in his ascension, in that having 
after his resurrection often appeared unto and conversed 
with his apostles, speaking to them of the things pertain- 
ing to the kingdom of God/ and giving them commission 
to preach the gospel to all nations ; m forty days after his 
resurrection, he, in our nature, and as our head/ 1 triumph- 
ing over enemies, visibly went up into the highest heav- 
ens, there to receive gifts for men/ to raise up our affec- 
tions thither/ and to prepare a place for us/ where himself 



the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ 
shall all be made alive. 

ff Eph. i. 22, 23. And gave him to be the head over all things to the 
church, which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all. 
Col. i. 18. 

h Rom. iv. 25. Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised 
again for our justification. 

* Eph. ii. 5, 6. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us 
together with Christ, Col. ii. 12. 

i 1 Cor. xv. 25, 26. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies 
under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 

* 1 Cor. xv. 20. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become 
the first-fruits of them that slept. 

1 Acts i. 2, 3. Until the day on which he was taken up, after that he 
through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles 
whom he had chosen : to whom also he showed himself alive after his 
passion, by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and 
speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. 

m Matt, xxviii. 19, 20. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations. Mark 
xvi. 15. 

n Heb. vi. 20. Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, 
made an high-priest for ever. See also letter ( l ), above. 

Eph. iv. 8. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he 
led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. 

v Acts i. 9.— While they beheld, he was taken up ; and a cloud re- 
ceived him out of their sight, Psa. lxviii. 18. Thou hast ascended on 
high ;— thou hast received gifts for men ; yea, for the rebellious also, 
that the Lord God might dwell among them. 

i Col. iii. 1, 2. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things 
which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God, etc. 

r John xiv. 2. I go to prepare a place for you. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 147 

is and shall continue till his second coming at the end of 
the world. 3 

Q. 54. How is Christ exalted in his sitting at the right 
hand of Godf 

A. Christ is exalted in his sitting at the right hand of 
God, in that as God-man he is advanced to the highest fa- 
vor with God the Father/ with all fullness of joy, M glory/ 
and power over all things in heaven and earth ; w and doth 
gather and defend his church, and subdue their enemies ; 
furnisheth his ministers and people with gifts and graces,* 
and maketh intercession for them. y 

Q. 55. How doth Christ make intercession ? 

A. Christ maketh intercession, by his appearing in our 
nature continually before the Father in heaven/ in the 
merit of his obedience and sacrifice on earth, a declaring 
his will to have it applied to all believers ; b answering all 
accusations against them ; c and procuring for them quiet 
of conscience notwithstanding daily failings/ access with 

a Acts iii. 21. Whom the heaven must receive until the times of res- 
titution of all things. 

* Phil. ii. 9. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given 
him a name which is above every name. 

u Acts ii. 28. Thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. 
Compared with Psa. xvi. 11. 

» John xvii. 5. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own 
self, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. 

w Eph. i. 22. And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him 
to be the head over all things to the church. 1 Pet. iii. 22. 

* Eph. iv. 11, 12. Psa. ex. throughout. 
v Rom. viii. 34. 

z Heb. ix. 24. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made 
with hands, which are the figures of the true ; but into heaven itself, 
now to appear in the presence of God for us. 

a Heb. i. 3. When he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on 
the right hand of the Majesty on high. 

6 John xvii. 9, 20, 24. Father, I will that they also whom thou hast 
given me be with me where I am ; that they may behold my glory, 
which thou hast given me. 

c Rom. viii. 33, 34. Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's 
elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth ? It is 
Christ that died, yea, rather, that is risen again, who is even at the 
right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 

d 1 John ii. 1, 2. If any man sin, we have an advocate with the 
Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. Rom. v. 1. 



148 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

boldness to the throne of grace, 6 and acceptance of their 
persons f and services. 9 

Q. 56. How is Christ to be exalted in his coming again to 
judge the world t 

A. Christ is to be exalted in his coming again to judge 
the world, in that he, who was unjustly judged and con- 
demned by wicked men,* shall come again at the last day 
in great power/ and in the full manifestation of his own 
glory and of his Father's, with all his holy angels/ with 
a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the 
trumpet of God,* to judge the world in righteousness/ 

Q. 57. Wliat benefits hath Christ procured by his media- 
tion f 

A. Christ by his mediation hath procured redemption, 77 * 
with all other benefits of the covenant of grace. n 

• Heb. iv. 15, 16. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of 
grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of 
need. 

/ Eph. i. 6. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath 
made us accepted in the Beloved. 

s 1 Pet. ii. 5. Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, 
an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God 
by Jesus Christ. Rev. viii. 3, 4. 

» Acts iii. 14, 15. But ye denied the Holy One, and the Just, and de- 
sired a murderer to be granted unto you ; and killed the Prince of 
life. 

• Matt. xxiv. 30. And then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, 
and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven 
with power and great glory. 

i Luke ix. 26. For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my 
words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come 
in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. Matt, 
xxv. 31. 

• 1 Thess. iv. 16. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven 
with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of 
God. 

1 Acts xvii. 31. Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he 
will judge the world in righteousness, by that man whom he hath or- 
dained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he 
hath raised him from the dead. 

m Heb. ix. 12. Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his 
own blood, he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained 
eternal redemption for us. 

n 2 Cor. i. 20. For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in 
him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 149 

Q. 58. How do we come to be made partakers of the bene- 
fits which Christ hath procured f 

A. We are made partakers of the benefits which Christ 
hath procured, by the application of them unto us, which 
is the work especially of God the Holy Ghost/ 

Q. 59. Who are made partakers of redemption through 
Christ f 

A. Kedemption is certainly applied, and effectually com- 
municated, to all those for whom Christ hath purchased 
it; q who are in time by the Holy Ghost enabled to believe 
in Christ, according to the gospel/ 

Q. 60. Can they who have never heard the gospel, and so 
know not Jesus Christ, nor believe in him, be saved by their 
living according to the light of nature f 

A. They who having never heard the gospel/ know not 
Jesus Christ,' and believe not in him, cannot be saved," be 
they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the 
light of nature," or the laws of that religion which they 
profess ; w neither is there salvation in any other, but in 

John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power 
to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. 

p Tit. iii. 5, 6. But according to his mercy he saved us, by the 
washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. John 
xvi. 7, 8. 

? John vi. 37, 39. All that the Father giveth me, shall come to me : 
and him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out. — And this is 
the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given 
me, I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 
John x. 15, 16.— I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I 
have, which are not of this fold : them also I must bring, and they 
shall hear my voice. Eph. i. 13, 14. 

r Eph. ii. 8. For by grace are ye saved, through faith : and that not 
of yourselves : it is the gift of God. John iii. 36. 

8 Rom. x. 14. How then shall they call on him in whom they have 
not believed ? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have 
not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher ? 

* 2 Thess. i. 8, 9. In naming fire taking vengeance on them that 
know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
etc. 

u John viii. 24. If ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your 
sins. Mark xvi. 16. He that believeth not, shall be damned. 

■ 1 Cor. i. 20 to 25. 

w John iv. 22. Phil. iii. 4 to 10. 



150 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Christ alone,* who is the Saviour only of his body the 
churchy 

Q. 61. Are all they saved who hear the gospel, and live in 
the church ? 

A. All that hear the gospel, and live in the visible 
church, are not saved ; but only they who are true mem- 
bers of the church invisible.* 

Q. 62. What is the visible church f 

A. The visible church is a society made up of all such 
as in all ages and places of the world do profess the true 
religion, and of their children. 6 

Q. 63. What are the special privileges of the visible church ? 

A. The visible church hath the privilege of being under 
God's special care and government; of being protected 
and preserved in all ages, notwithstanding the opposition 
of all enemies; d and of enjoying the communion of saints, 
the ordinary means of salvation, 6 and offers of grace by 
Christ to all members of it in the ministry of the gospel, 

■ Acts iv. 12. Neither is there salvation in any other : for there is 
none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must 
be saved. 

v Eph. v. 23. Even as Christ is the head of the church ; and he is the 
Saviour of the body. 

* Rom. ix. 6. They are not all Israel which are of Israel. Matt. vii. 
21. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the 
kingdom of heaven ; but he that doeth the will of my Father which 
is in heaven. Matt. xxii. 14. John xii. 38, 39, 40. 

a 1 Cor. i. 2. Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them 
that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in 
every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs 
and ours. 1 Cor. xii. 13. Rom. xv. 9 to 13. Matt, xxviii. 19, 20. 

b Acts ii. 39. For the promise is unto you, and to your children. 
1 Cor. vii. 14. Rom. xi. 16. Gen. xvii. 7. 

c Isa. iv. 5, 6. And the Lord will create upon every dwelling-place 
of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, 
and the shining of a flaming fire by night : for upon all the glory shall 
be a defence. And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the 
daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from 
storm and from rain. 1 Tim. iv. 10. 

d Matt. xvi. 18. And upon this rock I will build my church ; and the 
gales of hell shall not prevail against it. Isa. xxxi. 4, 5. Zcch. xii. 2, 
3, 4, 8, 9. Ex. iii. 2, 3. Psa. cxv. throughout. 

* Acts ii. 42. They continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine 
and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 151 

testifying that whosoever believes in him shall be saved/ 
and excluding none that will come unto him.*' 

Q. 64. What is the invisible church f 

A. The invisible church is the whole number of the 
elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one 
under Christ the head. 7 * 

Q. 65. What special benefits do the members of the invisible 
church enjoy by Christ f 

A. The members of the invisible church, by Christ, en- 
joy union and communion with him in grace and glory.* 

Q. 66. What is that union which the elect have with Christ ? 

A. The union which the elect have with Christ is the work 
of God's grace/ whereby they are spiritually and mystically, 
yet really and inseparably, joined to Christ as their head 
and husband ; k which is done in their effectual calling.* 

/ Psa. cxlvii. 19, 20. He showeth his word unto Jacob, his statutes 
and his judgments unto Israel. He hath not dealt so with any nation : 
and as for his judgments, they have not known them. Rom. ix. 4. 
Mark xvi. 15, 16.— Preach the gospel to every creature. He that be- 
lieveth and is baptized, shall be saved. Acts xvi. 31. Isa. xlv. 22. 
Rev. xxii. 17. 

a John vi. 37. And him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out. 

h Eph. i. 10. That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he 
might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in 
heaven, and which are on earth ; even in him. John xi. 52. And not 
for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the 
children of God that were scattered abroad. John x. 16. And other 
sheep I have, which are not of this fold ; them also I must bring, and 
they shall hear my voice ; and there shall be one fold, and one shep- 
herd. Eph. i. 22, 23. 

* John xvii. 21. That they all may be one ; as thou, Father, art in 
me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us. Eph. ii. 5, 6. 
1 John i. 3. — And truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with 
his Son Jesus Christ. John xvii. 24. Father, I will that they also 
whom thou hast given me be with me where I am ; that they may 
behold my glory. 

S Eph. ii. 6, 7, 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith ; and that 
not of yourselves : it is the gift of God. 

* 1 Cor. vi. 17. But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. 
John x. 28. And I give unto them eternal life ; and they shall never 
perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. Eph. v. 23, 30. 
—Even as Christ is the head of the church.— For we are members of 
his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 

1 1 Cor. i. 9. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto' the fel- 
lowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. 1 Pet. v. 10. 



152 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Q. 67. What is effectual calling ? 

A. Effectual calling is the work of God's almighty 
power and grace,™ whereby (out of his free and especial 
love to his elect, and from nothing in them moving him 
thereunto) 71 he doth in his accepted time invite and draw 
them to Jesus Christ, by his word and Spirit ; ° savingly 
enlightening their minds, 1 ' renewing and powerfully de- 
termining their wills,* so as they (although in themselves 
dead in sin) are hereby made willing and able, freely to 
answer his call, and to accept and embrace the grace 
offered and conveyed therein/ 

m Eph. i. 18, 19, 20. That ye may know what is the hope of his call- 
ing—and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who 
believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he 
wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at 
his own right hand in the heavenly places. 2 Tim. i. 8, 9. — Who hath 
saved us and called us with an holy calling, not according to our 
works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given 
us in Christ Jesus, before the world began. 

n Tit. iii. 4, 5. But after that the kindness and love of God our Sa- 
viour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we 
have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of 
regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Eph. ii. 4 to 10. God, 
who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us. even 
when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, 
(by grace ye are saved ;)— not of works, lest any man should boast. 
Rom. ix. 11.— According to election might stand, not of works, but of 
him that calleth. 

2 Cor. v. 20. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though 
God did beseech you by us : we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye recon- 
ciled to God. 2 Cor. vi. 2. BehoJd, now is the accepted time ; behold, 
now is the day of salvation. John vi. 44. No man can come to me, 
except the Father which hath sent me draw him ; and I will raise him 
up at the last day. 2 Thess. ii. 13, 14. But we are bound to give thanks 
alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath 
from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctincation of 
the Spirit, and belief of the truth ; whereunto he called you by our 
gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

p Acts xxvi. IS. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness 
to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive 
forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified 
by faith that is in me. 

« Ezek. xi. 19. And I will put a new spirit within you : and I will 
take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them a heart of 
flesh. Ezek. xxxvi. 26, 27. 

r John vi. 45. And they shall be all taught of God. Every man 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 153 

Q. 68. Are the elect only effectually called f 

A. All the elect, and they only, are effectually called ; * 
although others may be and often are outwardly called by 
the ministry of the word/ and have some common opera- 
tions of the Spirit; "who, for their willful neglect and con- 
tempt of the grace offered to them, being justly left in 
their unbelief, do never truly come to Jesus Christ." 

Q. 69. What is the communion in grace, which the mem- 
bers of the invisible church have with Christ ? 

A. The communion in grace, which the members of the 
invisible church have with Christ, is their partaking of the 
virtue of his mediation, in their justification,™ adoption,* 
sanctification, and whatever else in this life manifests their 
union with him. 2 ' 

Q. 70. What is justification? 

therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh 
unto me. Phil. ii. 13. For it is God which worketh in you both to 
will and to do of his good pleasure. Deut. xxx. 6. Eph. ii. 5. 

* Acts xiii. 48. And as many as were ordained to eternal life, be- 
lieved. 

* Matt. xxii. 14. For many are called, but few are chosen. 

u Matt. xiii. 20, 21. But he that received the seed into stony places, 
the same is he that heareth the word— yet hath he not root in himself, 
but dureth for awhile ; for when tribulation or persecution ariseth be- 
cause of the word, by and by he is offended. Heb. vi. 4, 5, 6. 

v Psa. lxxxi. 11, 12. But my people would not hearken to my voice ; 
and Israel would none of me. So I gave them up unto their own 
hearts' lust ; and they walked in their own counsels. John xii. 38, 39, 
40. That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which 
he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the 
arm of the Lord been revealed ? Therefore they could not believe, 
because that Esaias said again, He hath blinded their eyes, and hard- 
ened their heart ; that they should not see with their eyes, nor un- 
derstand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. 
Acts xxviii. 25, 26, 27. John vi. 64, 65. Prov. i. 24 to 32. Psa. xcv. 9 to 
the end. 

w Rom. viii. 30. Moreover, whom he did predestinate, them he also 
called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he 
justified, them he also glorified. 

x Eph. i. 5. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children 
by Jesus Christ to himself. 

v 1 Cor. i. 30. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made 
unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemp- 
tion, 



154 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

A. Justification is an act of God's free grace unto sin- 
ners,* in which he pardoneth all their sin, accepteth and 
accounteth their persons righteous in his sight ; a not for 
any thing wrought in them, or done by them, 6 but only for 
the perfect obedience and full satisfaction of Christ, by 
God imputed to them, c and received by faith alone. d 

Q. 71. How is justification an act of GooVsfree grace? 

A. Although Christ, by his obedience and death, did 
make a proper, real, and full satisfaction to God's justice 
in the behalf of them that are justified : e yet inasmuch 
as God accepteth the satisfaction from a surety, which he 
might have demanded of them ; and did provide this 



* Rom. iii. 22, 24, 25. Even the righteousness of God, which is by 
faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe ; for 
there is no difference— being justified freely by his grace, through the 
redemption that is in Christ Jesus, etc. Rom. iv. 5. 

a 2 Cor. v. 19, 21. To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the 
world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them. — For he 
hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin ; that we might be 
made the righteousness of God in him. Rom. iii. 22, 24, 25. Even the 
righteousness of God, which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and 
upon all them that believe, etc. 

6 Eph. i. 6, 7. Wherein he hath made us accepted in the Beloved : in 
whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, 
according to the riches of his grace. Rom. iii. 28. Therefore we con- 
clude, that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. 

e Rom. iii. 24, 25. Being justified freely by his grace, through the re- 
demption that is in Christ Jesus : whom God hath set forth to be a 
propitiation, through faith in his blood. Rom. v. 17, 18, 19.— Much 
more they which receive abundance of grace, and of the gift of right- 
eousness, shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.— By the obedience 
of one shall many be made righteous. Rom. iv. 6, 7, 8. Even as David 
also describeth the blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth 
righteousness without works, etc. 

d Rom. v. 1. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with 
God. Acts x. 43. To him give all the prophets witness, that through 
his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 
Gal. ii. 16. Phil. iii. 9. Rom. iii. 25, 26. 

« Matt. xx. 28. Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered 
unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom (or price of re- 
demption) for many. 1 Tim. ii. 6. 1 Pet. i. 18, 19. Forasmuch as ye 
know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and 
gold— but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without 
blemish and without spot. Rom. v. 8, 9, 10.— While we were yet sin- 
ners, Christ died for us, etc. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 155 

surety, his only Son/ imputing his righteousness to them,^ 
and requiring nothing of them for their justification but 
faith,* which also is his gift,* their justification is to them 
of free grace/ 

Q. 72. What is justifying faith f 

A. Justifying faith is a saving grace,* wrought in the 
heart of a sinner, by the Spirit l and word of God,™ 
whereby he, being convinced of his sin and misery, and 
of the disability in himself and all other creatures to re- 
cover him out of his lost condition," not only assenteth to 
the truth of the promise of the gospel, but receiveth and 



/Dan. ix. 24, 26. Isa. liii. 6, 10, 11, 12.— And the Lord hath laid on 
him the iniquity of us all.— Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him ; he 
hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for 
sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure 
of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. He shall see of the travail of 
his soul, and shall be satisfied. — Therefore will I divide him a portion 
with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong ; because 
he hath poured out his soul unto death : and he was numbered with 
the transgressors ; and he bare the sin of many. Heb. vii. 22. By so 
much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. Rom. viii. 32. 
He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how 
shall he not with him also freely give us all things ? 

2 Cor. v. 21. That we might be made the righteousness of God in 
him. Rom. iv. 11. 1 Cor. i. 30. 

h Rom. iii. 24, 25. Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation, 
through faith in his blood. Acts xvi. 31. 

» Eph. ii. 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith ; and that not 
of yourselves : it is the gift of God. 

J Eph. i. 7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the 
forgiveness of sins according to the riches of his grace. 

k Heb. x. 39. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdi- 
tion; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. 

1 2 Cor. iv. 13. We having the same spirit of faith. Eph. i. 17, 18, 19. 
That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give 
unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of 
him, etc. 

m Rom. x. 17. So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the 
word of God. Rom. i. 16. 

n John xvi. 8, 9. And when he is come, he will reprove the world 
of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they 
believe not on me. Acts xvi. 30. — Sirs, what must I do to be saved ? 
Acts ii. 37. Eph. ii. 1. Acts iv. 12. Rom. vii. 9. 

Eph. i. 13. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word 
of truth, the gospel of your salvation. 



156 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

resteth upon Christ and his righteousness therein held 
forth, for pardon of sin* and for the accepting and ac- 
counting of his person righteous in the sight of God for 
salvation. g 

Q. 73. How doth faith justify a sinner in the sight of 
God? 

A. Faith justifies a sinner in the sight of God, not be- 
cause of those other graces which do always accompany 
it, or of good works that are the fruits of it; r nor as 
if the grace of faith, or any act thereof, were imputed to 
him for justification; 8 but only as it is an instrument, by 
Avhich he receiveth and applieth Christ and his righteous- 
ness/ 

Q. 74. What is adoption f 

A. Adoption is an act of the free grace of God, w in and 
for his only Son Jesus Christ,* whereby all those that are 
justified are received into the number of his children,"' 



p Acts x. 43. To him give all the prophets witness, that, through his 
name, whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 
Acts xvi. 31. John i. 12. 

i Phil. iii. 9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteous- 
ness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of 
Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Acts xv. 11. But 
we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall 
be saved, even as they. 

r Gal. iii. 11. But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of 
God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. Rom. iii. 28. There- 
fore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of 
the law. 

• Rom. iv. 5. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him 
that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 
Compared with Rom. x. 10. 

' John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power 
to become the sons of God. Phil. iii. 9. 

u 1 John iii. 1. Behold, what manner of love the Father hath be- 
stowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God ! 

v Eph. i. 5. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children 
by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. 
Gal. iv. 4, 5. But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent 
forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them 
that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. 

» John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power 
to become the sons of God. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 157 

have his name put upon them,* the Spirit of his Son given 
to them/ are under his fatherly care and dispensations, 2 
admitted to all the liberties and privileges of the sons of 
God, made heirs of all the promises, and fellow-heirs with 
Christ in glory." 

Q. 75. What is sanctification ? 

A. Sanctification is a work of God's grace, whereby 
they whom God hath before the foundation of the world, 
chosen to be holy, are in time, through the powerful op- 
eration of his Spirit, 6 applying the death and resurrection 
of Christ unto them, c renewed in their whole man after 
the image of God ; d having the seeds of repentance unto 
life, and all other saving graces, put into their hearts/ and 



* Rev. iii. 12. And I will write upon him my new name. 2 Cor. 
vi. 18. 

y Gal. iv. 6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit 
of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. 

2 Psa. ciii. 13. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord piti- 
eth them that fear him. Prov. xiv. 26. In the fear of the Lord is 
strong confidence; and his children shall have a place of refuge. 
Matt. vi. 32.— For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of 
all these things. 

« Rom. viii. 17. And if children, then heirs ; heirs of God, and joint 
heirs with Christ : if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be 
also glorified together. Heb. vi. 12. 

6 Eph. i. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foun- 
dation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before 
him in love. 1 Cor. vi. 11. And such were some of you : but ye are 
washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the 
Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. 2 Thess. ii. 13. But we are 
bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the 
Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, 
through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. 

c Rom. vi. 4, 5, 6. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into 
death ; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of 
the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we 
have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be 
also in the likeness of his resurrection, etc. Phil. iii. 10. 

d Eph. iv. 23, 24. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind ; and 
that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteous- 
ness and true holiness. 

e Acts xi. 18. When they heard these things, they held their peace, 
and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted 
repentance unto life. 1 John iii. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth 



158 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

those graces so stirred up, increased and strengthened/ 
as that they more and more die unto sin, and rise unto 
newness of life/ 

Q. 76. What is repentance unto life f 

A. Repentance unto life is a saving grace,* wrought in 
the heart of a sinner by the Spirit ■ and word of God/ 
whereby out of the sight and sense, not only of the dan- 
ger,* but also of the filthiness and odiousness of his sins/ 



not commit sin ; for his seed remaineth in him : and he cannot sin, 
because he is born of God. 

/ Jude 20. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most 
holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost. Eph. iii. 16, 17, 18. That he 
would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strength- 
ened with might by his Spirit in the inner man ; that Christ may 
dwell in your hearts by faith ; that ye, being rooted and grounded in 
love, may be able to comprehend with all saints, etc. Col. i. 10, 11. That 
ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in 
every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God ; strength- 
ened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience 
and long-suffering with joy fulness. 

ff Rom. vi. 4, 6, 14. Even so we also should walk in newness of life. 
— Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body 
of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.— 
For sin shall not have dominion over you : for ye are not under the 
law, but under grace. 

h 2 Tim. ii. 25. If God peradventure will give them repentance to 
the acknowledging of the truth. 

f Zech. xii. 10. I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the 
inhabitants of Jerusalem, the Spirit of grace and of supplications ; and 
they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall 
mourn for him. 

i Acts xi. 18, 20, 21. And some of them were men of Cyprus and 
Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the 
Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was 
with them : and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. 
Psa. xix. 7-14. Acts ii. 37. 

* Ezek. xviii. 30, 32. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your 
transgressions ; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Turn— and live ye. 
Luke xv. 17, 18. How many hired servants of my father's have bread 
enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger ; etc. Hos. ii. 6, 7. 

1 Ezek. xxxvi. 31. Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and 
your doings that were not good, and shall loathe yourselves in your 
own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations. Ezek. xvi. 
61, 63. Then thou shalt remember thy ways, and be ashamed.— That 
thou may est remember, and be confounded, and never open thy 
mouth any more because of thy shame. Isa. xxx. 22. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 159 

and upon the apprehension of God's mercy in Christ to 
such as are penitent," 1 he so grieves for n and hates his 
sins, as that he turns from them all to God/ purposing 
and endeavoring constantly to walk with him in all the 
ways of new obedience. 5 

Q. 77. Wherein do justification and sanctification dif- 
fer ? 

A. Although sanctification be inseparably joined with 
justification, 1 " yet they differ, in that God in justification, 
imputeth the righteousness of Christ ; s in sanctification, 



m Psa. cxxx. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, 
O Lord, who shall stand ? But there is forgiveness with thee, that 
thou mayest be feared, etc. Joel ii. 12, 13.— Rend your heart, and not 
your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God : for he is gracious 
and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him 
of the evil. Zech. xii. 10. 

» Jer. xxxi. 18, 19. I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself 
thus : Thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised, as a bullock un- 
accustomed to the yoke : turn thou me, and I shall be turned ; for 
thou art the Lord my God. Surely after that I was turned, I re- 
pented ; and after that I was instructed, I smote upon my thigh : I 
was ashamed, yea, even confounded, because I did bear the reproach 
of my youth. 

2 Cor. vii. 11. For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed 
after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clear- 
ing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what 
vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge ! 

p Acts xxvi. 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness 
to light, and from the power of Satan unto God. Ezek. xiv. 6. Re- 
pent, and turn yourselves from your idols : and turn away your faces 
from all your abominations. 1 Kings viii. 47, 48.— If they shall be- 
think themselves— and so return unto thee with all their heart, and 
with all their soul. 1 Sam. vii. 3. 

* Psa. cxix. 59, 128. I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto 
thy testimonies.— Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all 
things to be right ; and I hate every false way. Luke i. 6. 

r 1 Cor. vi. 11. And such were some of you : but ye are washed, but 
ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, 
and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Cor. i. 30. But of him are ye in Christ 
Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and 
sanctification, and redemption. 

• Rom. iv. 6, 8. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the 
man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works. — Blessed 
is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 2 Cor. v. 21. Rom. 
iii. 24. 



160 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

his Spirit infuseth grace, and enableth to the exercise 
thereof; ( in the former, sin is pardoned ; u in the other, it 
is subdued ; v the one doth equally free all believers from 
the revenging wrath of God, and that perfectly in this 
life, that they never fall into condemnation ; w the other is 
neither equal in all, x nor in this life perfect in any/ but 
growing up to perfection/ 

Q. 78. Whence ariseth the imperfection of sanctification 
in believers ? 

A. The imperfection of sanctification in believers aris- 
eth from the remnants of sin abiding in every part of them, 



* Ezek. xxxvi. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause 
you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do 
them. 

u Rom. iii. 24, 25. Being justified freely by his grace, through the 
redemption that is in Christ Jesus ; whom God hath set forth to be a 
propitiation, through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness 
for the remission of sins. 

» Rom. vi. 6, 14. Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with 
him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we 
should not serve sin.— For sin shall not have dominion over you : for 
ye are not under the law, but under grace. 

» Rom. viii. 1, 33, 34. There is therefore now no condemnation to 
them which are in Christ Jesus.— Who shall lay any thing to the 
charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that con- 
demneth ? 

x Heb. v. 12, 13, 14. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, 
ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles 
of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, 
and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk, is unskillful 
in the word of righteousness; for he is a babe. But strong meat be- 
longeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use 
have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. 1 John ii. 
12, 13, 14. 

v 1 John i. 8, 10. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, 
and the truth is not in us.— If we say that we have not sinned, we 
make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 

z 2 Cor. vii. 1. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let 
us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfect- 
ing holiness in the fear of God. Phil. iii. 12, 13, 14. Brethren, I count 
not myself to have apprehended : but this one thing I do, forgetting 
those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things 
which are before, 1 press toward the mark for the prize of the high 
calling of God in Christ Jesus. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM, 161 

and the perpetual lustings of the flesh against the Spirit ; 
whereby they are often foiled with temptations, and fall 
into many sins, a are hindered in all their spiritual ser- 
vices, 6 and their best works are imperfect and defiled in 
the sight of God. c 

Q. 79. May not true believers, by reason of their imper- 
fections, and the many temptations and sins they are over- 
taken with, fall away from the state of grace f 

A. True believers, by reason of the unchangeable love 
of God/ and his decree and covenant to give them per- 
severance, 6 their inseparable union with Christ/ his con- 
tinual intercession for them/ and the Spirit and seed of 
God abiding in them/ can neither totally nor finally fall 



a Rom. vii. 18, 23. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dweli- 
eth no good thing : for to will is present with me ; bnt how to perform 
that which is good, I find not.— Bnt I see another law in my members 
warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity 
to the law of sin which is in my members. 

b Gal. v. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the spirit— so that ye can- 
not do the things that ye would. Heb. xii. 1. — Let ns lay aside every 
weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us. 

c Isa. lxiv. 6. But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our right- 
eousnesses are as filthy rags ; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our in- 
iquities, like the wind, have taken us away. Ex. xxviii. 38. 

d Jer. xxxi. 3. I have loved thee with an everlasting love. John 
xiii. 1. 

« Heb. xiii. 20, 21. Now the God of peace, that brought again from 
the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through 
the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect. 2 Sam. 
xxiii. 5.— Yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered 
in all things, and sure. Isa. liv. 10. 

/I Cor. i. 8. Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may 
be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

a Heb. vii. 25. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the utter- 
most that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make inter- 
cession for them. Luke xxii. 32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy 
faith fail not. 

* 1 John iii. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin ; 
for his seed remaineth in him; and he cannot sin, because he is 
born of God. 1 John ii. 27. But the anointing, which ye have re- 
ceived of him, abideth in you : and ye need not that any man teach 
you : but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is 
truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in 
him. 

11 



162 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

away from the state of grace, 4 but are kept by the power 
of God through faith unto salvation/ 

Q. 80. Can true believers be infallibly assured that they 
are in the estate of grace, and that they shall persevere there- 
in unto salvation ? 

A. Such as truly believe in Christ, and endeavor to 
walk in all good conscience before him,* may, without ex- 
traordinary revelation, by faith grounded upon the truth 
of God's promises, and by the Spirit enabling them to dis- 
cern in themselves those graces to which the promises of 
life are made/ and bearing witness with their spirits that 
they are the children of God, m be infallibly assured that 
they are in the estate of grace, and shall persevere there- 
in unto salvation.* 1 

Q. 81. Are all true believers at all times assured of their 

' Jer. xxxii. 40. And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, 
that I will not turn away from them, to do them good ; but I will put 
my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me. John x. 
28. And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, 
neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. 

1 1 Pet. i. 5. Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto 
salvation. Phil. i. 6.— He which hath begun a good work in you will 
perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. 

* 1 John ii. 3. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we 
keep his commandments. Acts xxiv. 16. 

1 1 Cor. ii. 12. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but 
the Spirit which is of God ; that we might know the things that are 
freely given to us of God. 1 John iv. 13, 16. Hereby know we that we 
dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. — 
And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God 
is love ; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in 
him. 1 John iii. 14, 18, 19, 21, 24. We know that we have passed from 
death unto life, because we love the brethren.— Let us not love in 
word, neither in tongue; but indeed and in truth. And hereby we 
know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 
—Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence to- 
ward God.— And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, 
and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the 
Spirit which he hath given us. 

m Rom. viii. 16. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, 
that we are the children of God. 

n 1 John v. 13. These things have I written unto you that believe on 
the name of the Son of God ; that ve may know that ye have eternal 
life. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 163 

present being in the estate of grace, and that they shall be 
saved f 

A. Assurance of grace and salvation not being of the 
essence of faith, true believers may wait long before they 
obtain it;* and, after the enjoyment thereof, may have it 
weakened and intermitted, through manifold distempers, 
sins, temptations, and desertions ; q yet are they never left 
without such a presence and support of the Spirit of God, 
as keeps them from sinking into utter despair/ 

Q. 82. What is the communion in glory, which the mem- 
bers of the invisible church have with Christ f 

A. The communion in glory, which the members of the 
invisible church have with Christ, is in this life, 3 imme- 
diately after death/ and at last perfected at the resurrec- 
tion and day of judgment. 1 * 

Q. 83. What is the communion in glory with Christ, 



Eph. i. 13. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word 
of truth, the gospel of your salvation : in whom also, after that ye be- 
lieved, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise. 

p Isa. 1. 10. Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth 
the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? 
let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God. Psa. 
lxxxviii. throughout. 

i Psa. lxxvii. 1 to 12. Will the Lord cast off for ever ? and will he be 
favorable no more ? Is his mercy clean gone for ever ? doth his prom- 
ise fail for evermore ? Hath God forgotten to be gracious ? hath he in 
anger shut up his tender mercies ? etc. Cant. v. 2, 3, 6. I sleep— I have 
put off my coat ; how shall I put it on ?— My beloved had withdrawn 
himself, and was gone ; my soul failed when he spake : I sought him, 
but I could not find him ; I called him, but he gave me no answer. 
Psa. xxxi. 22. For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine 
eyes. Psa. xxx. 6, 7, and li. 8, 12. 

r Job xiii. 15. Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him. Psa. 
lxxiii. 13, 14, 15, 23. Nevertheless I am continually with thee ; thou 
hast holden me by my right hand. 1 John iii. 9. Isa. liv. 7 to 11. 

« 2 Cor. iii. 18. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the 
glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to 
glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 

1 Luke xxiii. 43. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, 
To-day shalt thou be with me in paradise. 

w 1 Thess. iv. 17. Then we which are alive and remain, shall be 
caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the 
air : and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 



164 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

which the members of the invisible church enjoy in this 
life? 

A. The members of the invisible church have commu- 
nicated to them, in this life, the first-fruits of glory with 
Christ, as they are members of him their head, and so in 
him are interested in that glory which he is fully pos- 
sessed of; v and as an earnest thereof, enjoy the sense of 
God's love," 7 peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, 
and hope of glory . x As, on the contrary, sense of God's 
revenging wrath, horror of conscience, and a fearful ex- 
pectation of judgment, are to the wicked the beginning 
of the torments, which they shall endure after deaths 

Q. 84. Shall all men die ? 

A. Death being threatened as the wages of sin,* it is 
appointed unto all men once to die; a for that all have 
sinned. 6 

Q. 85. Death being the wages of sin, why are not the 
righteous delivered from death, seeing all their sins are for- 
given in Christ? 

A. The righteous shall be delivered from death itself at 



v Eph. ii. 5, 6. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us 
together with Christ ;— and hath raised us up together, and made us 
sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. 

w Rom. v. 5. And hope maketh not ashamed ; because the love of 
God is shed abroad in our hearts, by the Holy Ghost which is given 
unto us. 2 Cor. i. 22. Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest 
of the Spirit in our hearts. 

*Roin. v. 1,2. Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace 
with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ : by whom also we have ac- 
cess by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of 
the glory of God. Rom. xiv. 17. For the kingdom of God is not meat 
and drink; but righteousness and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 

y Gen. iv. 13. And Cain said unto the Lord, My punishment is 
greater than I can bear. Matt, xxvii. 4.— I have sinned, in that I 
have betrayed the innocent blood. Heb. x. 27. But a certain fearful 
looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the 
adversaries. Mark ix. 44. Where their worm dieth not, and the fire 
is not quenched. Rom. ii. 9. 

z Rom. vi. 23. For the wages of sin is death. 

a Heb. ix. 27. And as it is appointed unto men once to die. 

b Rom. v. 12. So death passed upon all men, for that all have sin- 
ned. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 165 

the last day, and even in death are delivered from the 
sting and curse of it ; c so that, although they die, yet it is 
out of God's love, d to free them perfectly from sin and 
misery, 6 and to make them capable of further commu- 
nion with Christ in glory, which they then enter upon/ 

Q. 86. What is the communion in glory with Christ, which 
the members of the invisible church enjoy immediately after death? 

A. The communion in glory with Christ, which the 
members of the invisible church enjoy immediately after 
death, is in that their souls are then made perfect in holi- 
ness/ and received into the highest heavens/ where they 
behold the face of God in light and glory ; * waiting for 
the full redemption of their bodies/ which even in death 
continue united to Christ/ and rest in their graves as in 

c 1 Cor. xv. 26, 55, 56, 57. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is 
death.— O death, where is thy sting ? grave, where is thy victory ? 
The sting of death is sin ; and the strength of sin is the law. But 
thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus 
Christ. Heb. ii. 15. 

d Isa. lvii. 1, 2. The righteous is taken away from the evil to come. 
He shall enter into peace : they shall rest in their beds. 2 Kings xxii. 
20. Behold, therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou 
shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace : and thine eyes shall not 
see all the evil which I will bring upon this place. 

e Rev. xiv. 13. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from 
henceforth : yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors ; 
and their works do follow them. Eph. v. 27. 

/ Luke xxiii. 43. And Jesus said unto him, Verily, I say unto thee, 
To-day shalt thou be with me in paradise. Phil. i. 23. For I am in a 
strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ ; 
which is far better. 

y Heb. xii. 23. To the general assembly and church of the first-born, 
which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the 
spirits of just men made perfect. 1 John iii. 2. Eph. v. 27. 

h 2 Cor. v. 1, 6, 8. If our earthly house of this tabernacle were dis- 
solved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, 
eternal in the heavens, etc. 

1 1 John iii. 2. But we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be 
like him ; for we shall see him as he is. 1 Cor. xiii. 12. Now we see 
through a glass, darkly ; but then face to face. Rev. xxii. 4, 5. Matt, 
v. 8. 

* Rom. viii. 23. Waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of 
our body. Psa. xvi. 9. My flesh also shall rest in hope. 

* 1 Thess. iv. 14. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, 
even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 



166 THE LARGER CATEOHISM. 

their beds/ till at the last day they be again united totfeeir 
souls."* Whereas the souls of the wicked are at their death 
cast into hell, where they remain in torments and utter 
darkness ; and their bodies kept in their graves, as in their 
prisons, until the resurrection and judgment of the great 
day. 71 

Q. 87. What are we to believe concerning the resurrec- 
tion f 

A. We are to believe, that at the last day, there shall be 
a general resurrection of the dead, both of the just and un- 
just : ° when they that are then found alive shall in a mo- 
ment be changed ; and the selfsame bodies of the dead 
which are laid in the grave, being then again united to 
their souls for ever, shall be raised up by the power of 
Christ. 1 ' The bodies of the just, by the Spirit of Christ, 
and by virtue of his resurrection as their head, shall be 
raised in power j spiritual, aod incorruptible, and made 



1 Isa. lvii. 2. He shall enter into peace ; they shall rest in their beds. 

m Job xix. 26, 27. And though after my skin worms destroy this 
body, yet in my flesh shall I see God : whom I shall see for myself, and 
mine eyes shall behold, and not another. 

n Luke xvi. 23, 24. And in hell he lifted up his eyes, being in tor- 
ments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And 
he cried and said, Father Abraham, — send Lazarus, that he may dip 
the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue ; for I am tormented 
in this flame. Acts i. 25.— From which Judas by transgression fell, 
that he might go to his own place. Jude 6.— He hath reserved in ever- 
lasting chains, under darkness, unto the judgment of the great day. 

Acts xxiv. 15. There shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of 
the just and unjust. 

p 1 Cor. xv. 51, 52, 53. Behold I show you a mystery ; We shall not 
all sleep but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling 
of an eye, at the last trump : for the trumpet shall sound, and the 
dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this 
corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on 
immortality. 1 Thess. iv. 15, 16, 17. For this we say unto you by the 
word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the com- 
ing of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the 
Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice 
of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ 
shall rise first : then we which are alive and remain, ^hall be caught 
up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and 
so shall we ever be with the Lord. John v. 28, 29. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 167 

like to his glorious body : q and the bodies of the wicked 
shall be raised up in dishonor by him as an offended 
judge/ 

Q. %%. What shall immediately follow after the resur- 
rection f 

A. Immediately after the resurrection shall follow the 
general and final judgment of angels and men: 8 the day 
and hour whereof no man knoweth, that all may watch 
and pray, and be ever ready for the coming of the Lord.* 

Q. 89. What shall be done to the wicked at the day of 
judgment f 



1 1 Cor. xv. 21, 22, 23, 42, 43, 44. For since by man came death, by 
man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, 
even so in Christ shall all be made alive. [It is evidently the scope of 
the Apostle's argument in this passage, to prove, that as all the natural 
seed of Adam, their covenant-head, were subjected to death by his 
offence ; so all the spiritual seed of Christ, their new covenant-head, 
shall be raised from death, to an immortal life of glory and blessed- 
ness, by virtue of his resurrection. It is therefore a perversion of the 
Scripture, to adduce this text as a proof of universal redemption.] 
But every man in his own order : Christ the first-fruits ; afterward 
they that are Christ's at his coming.— So also is the resurrection of the 
dead. It is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption : it is sown 
in dishonor, it is raised in glory : it is sown in weakness, it is raised in 
power : it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. Phil, 
iii. 21. Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like 
unto his glorious body. Dan. xii. 2. 

r John v. 28, 29. Marvel not at this : for the hour is coming, in the 
which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come 
forth ; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life ; and 
they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. Dan. 
xii. 2. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall 
awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting 
contempt. Matt. xxv. 33. 

8 2 Pet. ii. 4. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast 
them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be 
reserved unto judgment. 2 Cor. v. 10. For we must all appear before 
the judgment seat of Christ : that every one may receive the things 
done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good 
or bad. Rev. xx. 12. 

* Matt. xxiv. 36, 42, 44. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, 
no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.— Watch, therefore ; 
for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.— Therefore, be ye 
also ready ; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man com- 
eth. Luke xxi. 35, 36. 



168 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

A. At the day of judgment, the wicked shall be set on 
Christ's left hand," and upon clear evidence, and full con- 
viction of their own consciences/ shall have the fearful 
but just sentence of condemnation pronounced against 
them ; w and thereupon shall be cast out from the favor- 
able presence of God, and the glorious fellowship with 
Christ, his saints, and all his holy angels, into hell, to be 
punished with unspeakable torments both of body and 
soul, with the devil and his angels for ever. x 

Q. 90. What shall be done to the righteous at the day of 
judgment ? 

A. At the day of judgment, the righteous, being caught 
up to Christ in the clouds/ shall be set on his right hand, 
and there openly acknowledged and acquitted,* shall join 
with him in the judging of reprobate angels and men: a 
and shall be received into heaven, 6 where they shall be 

u Matt. xxv. 33. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, bnt 
the goats on the left. 

v Rom. ii. 15, 16. Which show the work of the law written in their 
hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the 
meanwhile accusing or else excusing one another ; in the day when 
God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my 
gospel. 

w Matt. xxv. 41, 42. Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, 
Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil 
and his angels : for I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat, etc. 

* Matt. xxv. 46. And these shall go away into everlasting punish- 
ment. 2 Thess. i. 8, 9. In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that 
know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ : 
who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence 
of the Lord, and from the glory of his power. Luke xvi. 26. John iii. 
36. Mark ix. 43, 44 ; xiv. 21. 

y 1 Thess. iv. 17. Then we which are alive and remain, shall be 
caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the 
air. 

2 Matt. xxv. 33. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand. Matt. 
x. 32. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I 
confess also before my Father which is in heaven. 

a 1 Cor. vi. 2, 3. Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the 
world ?— Know ye not that we shall judge angels ? 

b Matt. xxv. 34, 46. Then shall the King say unto them on his right 
hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared 
for you from the foundation of the world :— But the righteous into 
life eternal. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 169 

fully and for ever freed from all sin and misery ; c filled 
with inconceivable joys ; d made perfectly holy and happy 
both in body and soul, in the company of innumerable 
saints and angels, 6 but especially in the immediate vision 
and fruition of God the Father, of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
and of the Holy Spirit, to all eternity/ And this is the 
perfect and full communion, which the members of the 
invisible church shall enjoy with Christ in glory, at the 
resurrection and day of judgment. 



Having seen what the Scriptures principally teach us to be- 
lieve concerning God, it follows to consider what they re- 
quire as the duty of man. 

Q. 91. What is the duty which God requireth of man? 
A. The duty which God requireth of man is obedience 

to his revealed will. 5 ' 

Q. 92. What did God at first reveal unto man as the rule 

of his obedience ? 

A. The rule of obedience revealed to Adam in the es- 

c Eph. v. 27. That he might present it to himself a glorious church, 
not having spot, or wrinkle. Rev. vii. 17. And God shall wipe away 
all tears from their eyes. Rev. xiv. 13 ; xxi. 4. 

d Psa. xvi. 11. Thou wilt show me the path of life ; in thy presence 
is fullness of joy ; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. 
1 Cor. ii. 9. 

* Heb. xii. 22, 23. But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the 
city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumer- 
able company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the 
first-born, which are written in heaven, and to God the judge of all, 
and to the spirits of just men made perfect. 

/I John iii. 2. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not 
yet appear what we shall be : but we know that, when he shall ap- 
pear, we shall be like him ; for we shall see him as he is. 1 Cor. xiii. 
12. For now we see through a glass, darkly ; but then face to face ; 
now I know in part ; but then shall I know even as also I am known. 
1 Thess. iv. 17, 18.— So shall Ave ever be with the Lord. Wherefore, 
comfort one another with these words. Rev. xxii. 3, 4, 5. 

ff Deut. xxix. 29. The secret things belong unto the Lord our God ; 
but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our chil- 
dren for ever, that we may do all the words of this law. Micah vi. 8. 
1 Sam. xv. 22. 



170 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

tate of innocence, and to all mankind in him, beside a 
special command, not to eat of the fruit of the tree of the 
knowledge of good and evil, was the moral law.* 

Q. 93. What is the moral law ? 

A. The moral law is the declaration of the will of God 
"to mankind, directing and binding every one to personal, 
perfect, and perpetual conformity and obedience thereunto, 
in the frame and disposition of the whole man, soul and 
body/ and in performance of all those duties of holiness 
and righteousness which he oweth to God and man -J prom- 
ising life upon the fulfilling, and threatening death upon 
the breach of it.* 5 

Q. 94. Is there any use of the moral law to man since the fall? 

A. Although no man since the fall can attain to right- 
eousness and life by the moral law;* yet there is great use 
thereof, as well common to all men, as peculiar either to 
the unregenerate, or the regenerate. m 

* Rom. x. 5. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the 
law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. Rom. 
ii. 14, 15.— Which show the work of the law written in their hearts. 
Gen. ii. 17. 

» Deut. v. 1, 31, 33. Hear, O Israel, the statutes and judgments which 
I speak in your ears this day, that ye may learn them, and keep, and 
do them.— I will speak unto thee all the commandments, and the stat- 
utes, and the judgments, w T hich thou shalt teach them, that they may 
do them.— Ye shall walk in all the ways which the Lord your God 
hath commanded you. Luke x. 26, 27. — What is written in the law? 
how readest thou ? And he answering, said, Thou shalt love the Lord 
thy God with all thy heart, and w r ith all thy soul, and with all thy 
strength, and with all thy mind ; and thy neighbor as thyself. 1 Thess. 
v. 23.— I pray God, your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved 
blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

3 Luke i. 75. In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days 
of our life. Acts xxiv. 16. And herein do I exercise myself, to have 
always a conscience void of offence toward God. and toward men. 

* Rom. x. 5.— The man which doeth those things shall live by them. 
Gal. iii. 10. Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things 
which are written in the book of the law to do them. Verse 12. 

1 Rom. viii. 3. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak 
through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful 
flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh. Gal. ii. 16.— For by the 
works of the law shall no flesh be justified. 

m 1 Tim. i. 8. But we know that the law is good, if a man use it law- 
fully. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 171 

Q. 95. Of what use is the moral law to all men f 

A. The moral law is of use to all men, to inform them 
of the holy nature and will of God, n and of their duty- 
binding them to walk accordingly ; ° to convince them of 
their disability to keep it, and of the sinful pollution of 
their nature, hearts, and lives/ to humble them in the 
sense of their sin and misery, 5 and thereby help them to 
a clearer sight of the need they have of Christ, 7 * and of the 
perfection of his obedience. 8 

Q. 96. What particular use is there of the moral law to 
unregenerate men t 

A. The moral law is of use to unregenerate men, to 
awaken their consciences to flee from the wrath to come,' 
and to drive them to Christ ; u or, upon their continuance 



n Lev. xi. 44, 45. For I am the Lord your God : ye shall therefore 
sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy: for I am holy. Lev. xx. 7, 
8. Rom. vii. 12. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment 
holy, and just, and good. 

James ii. 10, 11. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet 
offend in one point, he is guilty of all. Micah vi. 8. What doth the 
Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk 
humbly with thy God ? 

p Psa. xix. 11, 12. Moreover by them is thy servant warned:— who 
can understand his errors ? Rom. iii. 20.— For by the law is the knowl- 
edge of sin. Rom. vii. 7. — I had not known sin, but by the law : for I 
had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. 

9 Rom. iii. 9, 23. What then? Are we better than they? No, in no 
wise : for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are 
all under sin.— For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. 
Rom. vii. 9, 13. — When the commandment came, sin revived, and I 
died. — That sin by the commandment might become exceeding sin- 
ful. 

r Gal. iii. 21, 22. Is the law then against the promises of God ? God 
forbid : for if there had been a law given which could have given life, 
verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the Scripture 
hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ 
might be given to them that believe. 

8 Rom. x. 4. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to 
every one that believeth. 

< 1 Tim. i. 9, 10. Knowing this, that the law is not made for a right- 
eous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for 
sinners, etc. Rom. vii. 9. 

u Gal. iii. 24. Wherefore the law w^as our schoolmaster to bring us 
unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. 



172 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

in the estate and way of sin, to leave them inexcusable,* 
and under the curse thereof. 10 

Q. 97. JYhat special use is there of the moral law to the 
regenerate f 

A. Although they that are regenerate and believe in 
Christ, be delivered from the moral law as a covenant of 
works, x so as thereby they are neither justified y nor con- 
demned : * yet, beside the general uses thereof common to 
them with all men, it is of special use to show them how 
much they are bound to Christ for his fulfilling it, and en- 
during the curse thereof in their stead and for their good ; a 
and thereby to provoke them to more thankfulness, 6 and to 
express the same in their greater care to conform them- 
selves thereunto as the rule of their obedience. 



• Rom. i. 20. So that they are without excuse. Compared with 
Rom. ii. 15. 

w Gal. iii. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law are under 
the curse. 

* Rom. vii. 4, 6. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead 
to the law by the body of Christ ; thai ye should be married to an- 
other, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring 
forth fruit unto God.— But now we are delivered from the law, that 
being dead wherein we were held ; that we should serve in newness 
of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. And vi. 14.— For ye are 
not under the law, but under grace. 

y Rom. iii. 20. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh 
be justified in his sight. 

■ Rom. viii. 1, 34. There is therefore now no condemnation to them 
which are in Christ Jesus. — Who is he that condemneth? 

° Gal. iii. 13, 14. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, 
being made a curse for us.— That we might receive the promise of the 
Spirit through faith. Rom. viii. 3, 4. For what the law could not do, 
in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the 
likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh ; that 
the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us. 2 Cor. v. 21. 

6 Col. i. 12, 13, 14. Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made 
us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light ; who 
hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us 
into the kingdom of his dear Son; in whom we have redemption 
through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins. Luke i. 68, 69, 74, 75. 

c Rom. vii. 22. For I delight in the law of God after the inward 
man. Tit. ii. 11, 12, 13, 14. For the grace of God that bringeth salva- 
tion hath appeared to all men, teaching us, that, denying ungodliness 
and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 173 

Q. 98. Wherein is the moral law summarily compre- 
hended f 

A. The moral law is summarily comprehended in the 
ten commandments, which were delivered by the voice of 
God upon mount Sinai, and written by him on two tables 
of stone ; d and are recorded in the twentieth chapter of 
Exodus ; the first four commandments containing our 
duty to God, and the other six our duty to man.* 

Q. 99. What rules are to be observed for the right under- 
standing of the ten commandments f 

A. For the right understanding of the ten command- 
ments, these rules are to be observed : — 

1. That the law is perfect, and bindeth every one to full 
conformity in the whole man unto the righteousness there- 
of, and unto entire obedience for ever ; so as to require the 
utmost perfection of every duty, and to forbid the least de- 
gree of every siny 

2. That it is spiritual, and so reacheth the understand- 
ing, will, affections, and all other powers of the soul ; as 
well as words, works, and gestures. 9 

this present world ; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious 
appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ ; who gave 
himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify 
unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. Rom. xii. 2. 

d Deut. x. 4. And he wrote on the tables, according to the first writ- 
ing, the ten commandments. Ex. xxxiv. 1, 2, 3, 4. 

e Matt. xxii. 37, 38, 39, 40. Jesus said unto him , Thou shalt love the 
Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all 
thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second 
is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two 
commandments hang all the law and the prophets. 

/Psa. xix. 7. The law of the Lord is perfect. James ii. 10. For 
whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he 
is guilty of all. Matt. v. 20 to the end. Whosoever shall say, [to his 
brother] Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.— Whosoever looketh 
on a woman to lust after her, hath committed adultery with her al- 
ready in his heart. — But let your communication be Yea, yea ; Nay, 
nay : for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.— But I say 
unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to 
them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, 
and persecute you. 

a Rom. vii. 14. For we know that the law is spiritual. Deut. vi. 5. 



174 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

3. That one and the same thing, in divers respects, is 
required or forbidden in several commandments. 71 

4. That as, where a duty is commanded, the contrary sin 
is forbidden ; i and, where a sin is forbidden, the contrary 
duty is commanded -J So, where a promise is annexed, the 
contrary threatening is included ; k and, where a threaten- 
ing is annexed, the contrary promise is included. 2 

5. That what God forbids, is at no time to be done ; m 



Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all 
thy soul, and with all thy might. Matt. xxii. 37, 38, 39. Matt. xii. 
36, 37. 

h Col. iii. 5. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the 
earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupis- 
cence, and covetousness, which is idolatry. 1 Tim. vi. 10. For the 
love of money is the root of all evil ; which while some coveted after, 
they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with 
many sorrows. Ex. xx. 3, 4, 5. Amos viii. 5. 

* Isa. lviii. 13. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from 
doing thy pleasure on my holy day ; and call the Sabbath a delight, 
the holy of the Lord, honorable ; and shalt honor him, not doing 
thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine 
own words. Matt. xv. 4, 5, 6. For God commanded, saying, Honor thy 
father and mother : and He that curseth father or mother, let him die 
the death. But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his moth- 
er, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me ; ana 
honor not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye 
made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. 
Deut. vi. 13. Compared with Matt. iv. 9, 10. 

3 Eph. iv. 28. Let him that stole steal no more ; but rather let him 
labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may 
have to give to him that needeth. 

* Ex. xx. 12. Honor thy father and thy mother : that thy days may 
be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. Com- 
pared with Prov. xxx. 17. The eye that mocketh at his father, and 
despise th to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it 
out, and the young eagles shall eat it. 

1 Jer. xviii. 7, 8. At what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, 
and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, and to pull down, and to de- 
stroy it ; if that nation, against whom I have pronounced, turn from 
their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them. 
Ex. xx. 7. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain : 
for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. 
Compared with Psa. xv. 1, 4, 5, and with Psa. xxiv. 4, 5. 

m Rom. iii. 8. And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and 
as some affirm that we say) Let us do evil that good may come ? whose 
damnation is just. Heb. xi. 25. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 175 

what he commands is always our duty; n and yet every 
particular duty is not to be done at all times. 

6. That, under one sin or duty, all of the same kind are 
forbidden or commanded ; together with all the causes, 
means, occasions, and appearances thereof, and provoca- 
tions thereunto. p 

7. That what is forbidden or commanded to ourselves, 
we are bound, according to our places, to endeavor that it 
may be avoided or performed by others, according to the 
duty of their places.* 

8. That in what is commanded to others, we are bound, 
according to our places and callings, to be helpful to 
them; r and to take heed of partaking with others in what 
is forbidden them. s 

Q. 100. What special things are we to consider in the ten 
commandments f 

A. We are to consider in the ten commandments, the 

n Deut. iv. 9. Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligent- 
ly, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest 
they depart from thine heart all the days of thy life ; but teach them 
thy sons, and thy sons' sons. 

Matt. xii. 7. But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have 
mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. 
Mark xiv. 7. 

p 1 Thess. v. 22. Abstain from all appearance of evil. Gal. v. 26. 
Let us not be desirous of vain-glory, provoking one another, envying 
one another. Heb. x. 24. Let us consider one another to provoke 
unto love and to good works. Col. iii. 21. 

i Ex. xx. 10. But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy 
God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy 
daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor 
thy stranger that is within thy gates. Gen. xviii. 19. For I know him, 
that he will command his children and his household after him ; and 
they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment. 
Deut. vi. 6, 7. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall 
be in thine heart ; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy chil- 
dren, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thy house, and when 
thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou 
risest up. Josh. xxiv. 15. 

r 2 Cor. i. 24. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but 
are helpers of your joy. 

« 1 Tim. v. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partakers 
of other men's sins : keep thyself pure. Eph. v. 11. And have no fel- 
lowsh ip with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. 



176 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

preface, the substance of the commandments themselves, 
and the several reasons annexed to some of them the more 
to enforce them. 

Q. 101. What is the preface to the ten commandments? 

A. The preface to the ten commandments is contained 
in these words, / am the Lord thy God, which have brought 
thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 1 
Wherein God manifesteth his sovereignty, as being Jeho- 
vah, the eternal, immutable, and almighty God; "having 
his being in and of himself/ and giving being to all his 
words 10 and works ; x and that he is a God in covenant, as 
with Israel of old, so with all his people ; y who as he 
brought them out of their bondage in Egypt, so he deliv- 
ered us from our spiritual thraldom ; * and that therefore 
we are bound to take him for our God alone, and to keep 
all his commandments.* 

Q. 102. What is the sum of the four commandments which 
contain our duty to God? 

« Ex. xx. 2. 

" Isa. xliv. 6. Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and his Re- 
deemer the Lord of hosts ; I am the first, and I am the last ; and be- 
side me there is no God. 

f Ex.iii. 14. And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM : and he 
said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent 
me unto you. 

w Ex. vi. 3. And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto 
Jacob, by the name of God Almighty ; but by my name JEHOVAH 
was I not known to them. 

■ Acts xvii. 24, 28. God that made the world and all things therein, 
seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples 
made with hands— For in him we live, and move, and have our being. 

y Gen. xvii. 7. And I will establish my covenant between me and 
thee. Compared with Rom. iii. 29. Is he the God of the Jews only? 
is he not also of the Gentiles ? Yes, of the Gentiles also. 

z Luke i. 74, 75. That he would grant unto us, that we being deliv- 
ered out of the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, 
in holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. 

« 1 Pet. i. 15, 16, 17, 18. But as he which hath called you is holy, so 
be ye holy in all manner of conversation ; because it is written, Be ye 
holy ; for I am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without re- 
spect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time 
of your sojourning here in fear : forasmuch as ye know that ye were not 
redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain 
conversation. Lev. xviii. 30, and xix. 37. See also letter ( z ), above. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 177 

A. The sum of the four commandments containing our 
duty to God, is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, 
and with all our soul, and with all our strength, and with 
all our mind. 6 

Q. 103. Which is the first commandment f 

A. The first commandment is, Thou shalt have no other 
gods before me. c 

Q. 104. What are the duties required in the first command- 
ment f 

A. The duties required in the first commandment are, 
the knowing and acknowledging of God to be the only- 
true God, and our God ; d and to worship and glorify him 
accordingly/ by thinking/ meditating/ remembering/ 
highly esteeming/ honoring/' adoring/ choosing/ lov- 



6 Luke x. 27. Thou shalt love the Lord, etc. 

• Ex. xx. 3. 

d 1 Chron. xxviii. 9. And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the 
God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a will- 
ing mind. Deut. xxvi. 17. Thou hast avouched the Lord this day to 
be thy God. Isa. xliii. 10. Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and 
my servant whom I have chosen ; that ye may know and believe me, 
and understand that I am he : before me there was no God formed, 
neither shall there be after me. Jer. xiv. 22. 

e Psa. xcv. 6, 7. O come, let us worship and bow down ; let us kneel 
before the Lord our Maker. For he is our God ; and we are the people 
of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. Matt. iv. 10. — Thou shalt 
worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Psa. xxix. 
2. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name : worship the Lord 
in the beauty of holiness. 

/Mai. iii. 16. Then they that feared the Lord, spake often one to an- 
other; and the Lord hearkened, and heard it: and a book of remem- 
brance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that 
thought upon his name. 

9 Psa. lxiii. 6. When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate 
on thee in the night-watches. 

h Eccl. xii. 1. Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth. 

« Psa. lxxi. 19. Thy righteousness also, O God, is very high, who hast 
done great things : O God, who is like unto thee ? 

i Mai. i. 6. If then I be a father, where is mine honor ? 

* Isa. xlv. 23. I have sworn by myself, the word has gone out of my 
mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, that unto me every knee 
shall bow, every tongue shall swear. Psa. xcvi. throughout. 

1 Josh. xxiv. 22. Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have 
chosen you the Lord, to serve him.. With verse 15. 
12 



178 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

ing, m desiring, 71 fearing of him ; ° believing him ; p trusting, 3 
hoping, 7 " delighting, 8 rejoicing in him;' being zealous for 
him ; u calling upon him ; giving all praise and thanks,* 
and yielding all obedience and submission to him with the 
whole man ; w being careful in all things to please him,* 
and sorrowful when in any thing he is offended ; y and 
walking humbly with him. 2 

Q. 105. What are the sins forbidden in the first command- 
ment f 

A. The sins forbidden in the first commandment are 
atheism, in denying, or not having a God ; a idolatry, in 
having or worshiping more gods than one, or any with, or 
instead of the true God ; h the not having and vouching 



m Deut. vi. 5. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God. 

n Psa. lxxiii. 25. Whom have I in heaven but thee ? and there is 
none upon earth that I desire besides thee. 

Isa. viii. 13. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be 
your fear, and let him be your dread. 

p Ex. xiv. 31. And the people feared the Lord, and believed the Lord. 
Rom. x. 11. Acts x. 43. 

9 Isa. xxvi. 4. Trust ye in the Lord for ever. Psa. xl. 4. 

r Psa. cxxx. 7. Let Israel hope in the Lord. 

• Psa. xxxvii. 4. Delight thyself also in the Lord. 

' Psa. xxxii. 11. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous : and 
shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart. 

u Rom. xii. 11. Fervent in spirit ; serving the Lord. Rev. iii. 19. 
Be zealous therefore. Num. xxv. 11. 

v Phil. iv. 6. But in every thing by prayer and supplication, with 
thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God. 

w Jer. vii. 23. But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my 
voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people ; and walk 
ye in all the ways that I have commanded you. James iv. 7. Submit 
yourselves therefore to God. Rom. xii. 1. 

x 1 John iii. 22. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because 
we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in 
his sight. 

v Neh. xiii. 8. And it grieved me sore. Psa. lxxiii. 21. Thus my 
heart was grieved. Psa. cxix. 136. Rivers of waters run down mine 
eyes, because they keep not thy law. Jer. xxxi. 18, 19. 

* Micah vi. 8. And to walk humbly with thy God. 

a Psa. xiv. 1. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Eph. 
ii. 12. And without God in the world. 

6 Jer. ii. 27, 28. Saying to a stock, Thou art my father ; and to a stone, 
Thou hast brought me forth.— Where are thy gods that thou hast made 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 179 

him for God, and our God ; c the omission or neglect of any 
thing due to him, required in this commandment ; d igno- 
rance/ forgetfulness/ misapprehensions/ false opinions/ 
unworthy and wicked thoughts of him ;* bold and curious 
searcbings into his secrets \ j all profaneness/ hatred of 
God/ self-love/ 1 self-seeking/ and all other inordinate and 
immoderate setting of our mind, will or affections upon 
other things, and taking them off from him in whole or in 



thee ?— for according to the number of thy cities are thy gods, O Judah. 
Compared with 1 Thess. i. 9. 

c Psa. lxxxi. 11. But my people would not hearken to my voice : and 
Israel would none of me. 

d Isa. xliii. 22, 23. But thou hast not called upon me, O Jacob ; but 
thou hast been weary of me, O Israel. Thou hast not brought me the 
small cattle of thy burnt-offerings : neither hast thou honored me with 
thy sacrifices. With verse 24. 

« Jer. iv. 22. For my people is foolish, they have not known me ; 
they are sottish children, and they have none understanding: they 
are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge. Hos. iv. 
1, 6.— For the Lord hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, 
because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the 
land. — My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. 

/Jer. ii. 32. Can a maid forget her ornaments, or a bride her at- 
tire? yet my people have forgotten me days without number. Psa. 
1.22. 

9 Acts xvii. 23, 29. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I 
found an altar with this inscription, To the unknown God. Whom 
therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.— We ought 
not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, 
graven by art and man's device. 

h Isa. xl. 18. To whom then will ye liken God ? or what likeness 
will ye compare unto him? 

* Psa. 1. 21. These things hast thou done, and I kept silence ; thou 
thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will re- 
prove thee and set them in order before thine eyes. 

} Deut. xxix. 29. The secret things belong unto the Lord our God. 

* Tit. i. 16. They profess that they know God ; but in works they 
deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good 
work reprobate. Heb. xii. 16. 

1 Bom. i. 30. Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boast- 
ers. 

m 2 Tim. iii. 2. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covet- 
ous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, 
unholy. 

n Phil. ii. 21. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus 
Christ's. 



180 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

part; vain credulity/ unbelief, 5 heresy,*" misbelief, 8 dis- 
trust/ despair ; " incorrigibleness/ and insensibleness un- 
der judgments, 1 * hardness of heart, 1 pride, y presump- 
tion/ carnal security," tempting of God: 6 using unlawful 
means, c aud trusting in lawful means ; d carnal delights 
and joys; e corrupt, blind, and indiscreet zeal ; f lukewarm- 

1 John ii. 15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in 
the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is 
not in him. 1 Sam. ii. 29.— And honorest thy sons above me. Col. 
iii. 2, 5. 

p 1 John iv. 1. Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits 
whether they are of God ; because many false prophets are gone out 
into the world. 

« Heb. iii. 12. Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an 
evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. 

r Gal. v. 20. Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, 
wrath, strife, seditions, heresies. Tit. iii. 10. 

« Acts xxvi. 9. I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many 
things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 

■ Psa. lxxviii. 22. Because they believed not in God, and trusted not 
in his salvation. 

" Gen. iv. 13. And Cain said,— My punishment is greater than I can 
bear. 

v Jer. v. 3. Thou hast stricken them, but they have not grieved ; 
thou hast consumed them, but they have refused to receive correc- 
tion : they have made their faces harder than a rock ; they have re- 
fused to return. 

■ Isa. xlii. 25. Yet he knew not ;— yet he laid it not to heart. 

* Rom. ii. 5. But after thy hardness and impenitent heart, treasurest 
up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the 
righteous judgment of God. 

v Jer. xiii. 15. Hear ye, and give ear; be not proud: for the Lord 
hath spoken. 

2 P>a. xix. 13. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins ; 
—then shall I be— innocent from the great transgression. 

a Zeph. i. 12. And punish the men that are settled on their lees; 
that say in their heart, The Lord will not do good, neither will he do 
evil. 

6 Matt. iv. 7. Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. 

c Rom. iii. 8. And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and 
as some affirm that we say) Let us do evil that good may come ? whose 
damnation is just. 

d Jer. xvii. 5. Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh 
flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. 

« 2 Tim. iii. 4. Traitors^heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure more 
than lovers of God. 

/Gal. iv. 17. They zealously affect you, but not well. Rom. x. 2. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 181 

ness/ and deadness in the things of God ; * estranging our- 
selves, and apostatizing from God ;* praying,or giving any- 
religious worship, to saints, angels, or any other creatures ;■* 
all compacts and consulting with the devil,* and hearken- 
ing to his suggestions ; ' making men the lords of our faith 
and conscience ; m slighting and despising God, and his com- 
mands ; n resisting and grieving of his Spirit, discontent 
and impatience at his dispensations, charging him fool- 
ishly for the evils he inflicts onus; 1 ' and ascribing the 

For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not accord- 
ing to knowledge. John xvi. 2. Luke ix. 54, 55. 

ff Rev. iii. 16. So then, because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold 
nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 

* Rev. iii. 1. I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou 
livest, and art dead. 

* Ezek. xiv. 5. Because they are all estranged from me through their 
idols. Isa. i. 4, 5.— They have forsaken the Lord,— they are gone away 
backward. Why should ye be stricken any more? Ye will revolt 
more and more. 

i Hos. iv. 12. My people ask counsel at their stocks, and their staff 
declareth unto them. Rev. xix. 10. And I fell at his feet to worship 
him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not ; I am thy fellow-ser- 
vant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus : worship 
God. Col. ii. 18. Let no man beguile you of your reward in a volun- 
tary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things 
which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind. Rom. 
i. 25. 

* Lev. xx. 6. And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar 
spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set 
my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people. 
1 Sam. xxviii. 7, 1 1. Compared with 1 Chron. x. 13, 14. 

1 Acts v. 3. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine 
heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of 
the land ? 

** 2 Cor. i. 24. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but 
are helpers of your joy. Matt, xxiii. 9. 

n Deut. xxxii. 15. Then he forsook God which made him, and light- 
ly esteemed the Rock of his salvation. Prov. xiii. 13. Whoso despis- 
eth the word shall be destroyed : but he that feareth the command- 
ment shall be rewarded. 2 Sam. xii. 9. 

Acts vii. 51. Ye stiff-necked, and uncircumcised in heart and ears, 
ye do always resist the Holy Ghost. Eph. iv. 30. And grieve not the 
Holy Spirit of God 

p Psa. lxxiii. 2, 3, 13, 14, 15, 22. But as for me, my feet were almost 
gone ; my steps had well nigh slipped. For I was envious at the fool- 
ish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked, etc. 



182 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

praise of any good we either are, have, or can do, to for- 
tune/ idols, 7 " ourselves,* or any other creature.* 

Q. 106. What are we especially taught by these words (be- 
fore me) in the first commandment? 

A. These words [before me) or before my face, in the 
first commandment, teach us, that God, who seeth all things, 
taketh special notice of, and is much displeased with, the 
sin of having any other god : that so it may be an argu- 
ment to dissuade from it, and to aggravate it as a most im- 
pudent provocation ; u as also to persuade us to do as in 
his sight, whatever we do in his service." 

Q. 107. Which is the second commandment ? 

A. The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make 
unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that 
is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in 
the water under the earth : thou shalt not bow down thyself to 
them nor serve them : for I the Lord thy God am a jealous 
God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, 
unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me ; 
and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and 
keep my commandment s. w 

? 1 Sam. vi. 9. But if not, then we shall know that it is not his hand 
that smote us ; it was a chance that happened to us. 

r Dan. v. 23. And thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of 
brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know : and 
the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast 
thou not glorified. 

s Deut. viii. 17. And thou say in thine heart, My power and the 
might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. Dan. iv. 30. 

' Hab. i. 16. Therefore they sacrifice unto their net, and burn in- 
cense unto their drag. 

u Psa. xliv. 20, 21. If we have forgotten the name of our God, or 
stretched out our hands to a strange god ; shall not God search this 
out ? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart. Ezek. viii. 5, to the end 
of the chapter.— And, behold northward at the gate of the altar this 
image of jealousy in the entry.— But turn thee yet again, and thou 
shalt see greater abominations, etc. 

v 1 Chron. xxviii. 9. And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the 
God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart, and with a 
willing mind : for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth 
all the imaginations of the thoughts. 

«» Ex. xx. -4, 5, 6. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 183 

Q. 108. What are the duties required in the second com- 
mandment f 

A. The duties required in the second commandment are, 
the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all 
such religious worship and ordinances as God hath insti- 
tuted in his word ; z particularly prayer and thanksgiving 
in the name of Christ; y the reading, preaching, and hear- 
ing of the word ; * the administration and receiving of the 
sacraments ; a church government and discipline ; 6 the 
ministry and maintenance thereof; c religious fasting ; d 

x Deut. xxxii. 46. Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify 
among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe 
to do, all the words of this law. Matt, xxviii. 20. Teaching them to 
observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. 1 Tim. vi. 13, 
14. — That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, 
until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. Acts ii. 42. 

y Phil. iv. 6. Be careful for nothing : but in every thing by prayer 
and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known 
unto God. Eph. v. 20. 

z Deut. xvii. 18, 19. That he shall write him a copy of this law in a 
book, — and it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days 
of his life. Acts xv. 21. For Moses— hath in every city them that 
preach him, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath-day. 2 Tim. 
iv. 2. Preach the word ; be instant in season, out of season ; reprove, 
rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine. James i. 21, 22. 
— Receive with meekness the engrafted word, etc. Acts x. 33. 

a Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. 1 Cor. xi. from the 23d to the 30th verse. For I have received 
of the Lord, that which also I delivered unto you, etc. 

b Matt. xvi. 19. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom 
of heaven : and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound 
in heaven ; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed 
in heaven. And John xx. 23. Matt, xviii. 15, 16, 17.— And if he shall 
neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church ; but if he neglect to hear 
the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. 
1 Cor. v. and chap. xii. 28. 

c Eph. iv. 11, 12. And he gave some, apostles ; and some, prophets; 
and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the per- 
fecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of 
the body of Christ. 1 Tim. v. 17, 18. Let the elders that rule well be 
counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the 
word and doctrine. For the Scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle 
the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The laborer is worthy of his 
reward. 1 Cor. ix. 1 to 15. 

d Joel ii. 12, 13. Therefore also now, saith the Lord, Turn ye even to 



184 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

swearing by the name of God, 6 and vowing unto him: / 
as also the disapproving, detesting, opposing all false wor- 
ship ; • and, according to each one's place and calling, re- 
moving it, and all monuments of idolatry.* 

Q. 109. What are the sins forbidden in the second com- 
mandment f 

A. The sins forbidden in the second commandment are, 
all devising, 1 ' counseling/ commanding,^ using,* and any 
wise approving any religious worship not instituted by 
God himself; ■ the making any representation of God, of 

me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with 
mourning, etc. 1 Cor. vii. 5.— That ye may give yourselves to fasting 
and prayer. 

■ Deut. vi. 13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and 
shalt swear by his name. 

/Psa. lxxvi. 11. Vow, and pay unto the Lord your God. Isa. xix. 
21. Psa, cxvi. 14, 18. 

o Acts xvii. 16, 17. Now, while Paul waited for them at Athens, his 
spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idol- 
atry. Psa. xvi. 4. Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after 
another God : their drink-offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take 
up their names into my lips. 

h Deut, vii. 5. Isa. xxx. 22. 

« Num. xv. 39. And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may 
look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the Lord, and 
do them ; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own 
eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring. 

i Deut. xiii. 6, 7, 8. If thy brother, the son of thy mother, or thy son, 
or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosom, or thy friend, which is as 
thine own soul, entice thee secretly, saying, Let us go and serve other 
gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers ;— thou shalt 
not consent unto him, nor hearken unto him: neither shall thine eye 
pity him. neither shalt thou spare, neither shalt thou conceal him. 

* Hos. v. 11. Ephraim is oppressed— in judgment because he will- 
ingly walked after the commandment. Mic. vi. 16. For the statutes 
of Omri are kept. 

1 1 Kings xi. 33. Because that they have forsaken me, and have wor- 
shiped Ashtoreth. 1 Kings xii. 33. So he offered upon the altar which 
he had made in Bethel the fifteenth day of the eighth month, even in 
the month which he had devised of his own heart : and ordained a 
feast unto the children of Israel : and he offered upon the altar and 
burnt incense. 

« Deut. xii. 30, 31, 32. Take heed to thyself, that thou be not snared 
by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee ; and 
that thou inquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations 
serve their gods? Even so will I do likewise.— What thing soever I 






THE LARGER CATECHISM. 185 

all, or of any of the three Persons, either inwardly in our 
mind, or outwardly in any kind of image or likeness of 
any creature whatsoever : n all worshiping of it, or God in 
it or by it;-* 7 the making of any representation of feigned 
deities,* and all worship of them, or service belonging to 
them ; r all superstitious devices, 5 corrupting the worship 
of God/ adding to it, or taking from it, w whether invented 
and taken up of ourselves,* or received by tradition from 

command you, observe to do it : thou shalt not add thereto, nor di- 
minish from it. 

n Deut. iv. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19. Take ye therefore good heed unto your- 
selves; for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord 
spake unto you in Horeb, out of the midst of the fire ; lest ye corrupt 
yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure. 
—Acts xvii. 29. Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we 
ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or 
stone, graven by art and man's device. Rom. i. 21, 22, 23, 25. — But be- 
came vain in their imaginations— and changed the glory of the uncor- 
ruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, 
— who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshiped and served 
the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 

Gal. iv. 8. Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service 
unto them which by nature are no gods. Dan. iii. 18. 

p Ex. xxxii. 5. And when Aaron saw it, he built an altar before it ; and 
Aaron made proclamation and said, To-morrow is a feast to the Lord. 

9 Ex. xxxii. 8. They have made them a molten calf, and have wor- 
shiped it, and have sacrificed thereunto, and said, These be thy gods, 
Israel, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. 

r 1 Kings xviii. 26, 28. And they took the bullock which was given 
them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morn- 
ing even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us, etc. Isa. lxv. 11. 

• Acts xvii. 22. Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars hill, and said, 
Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too supersti- 
tious. Col. ii. 21, 22, 23. (Touch not ; taste not ; handle not ; which all 
are to perish with the using ;) after the commandments and doctrines 
of men. Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will-worship, 
and humility, and neglecting of the body : not in any honor to the 
satisfying of the flesh. 

1 Mai. i. 7, 8, 14. Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar.— But 
cursed be the deceiver, which hath in his flock a male, and voweth, 
and sacrificeth unto the Lord a corrupt thing ; for I am a great King, 
saith the Lord of hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen. 

u Deut. iv. 2. Ye shall not add unto the word which I command 
you, neither shall ye diminish aught from it, that ye may keep the 
commandments of the Lord your God which I command you. 

» Psa. cvi. 39. Thus were they defiled with their own works, and 
went a whoring with their own inventions. 



186 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

others,* though under the title of antiquity, 35 custom, 8 ' de- 
votion,* good intent, or any other pretence whatsoever; 
simony, 6 sacrilege; all neglect,* contempt, 6 hindering/ 
and opposing the worship and ordinances which God hath 
appointed/ 

» Matt. xv. 9. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doc- 
trines the commandments of men. 

x 1 Pet. i. 18. Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed 
with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversa- 
tion received by tradition from your fathers. 

v Jer. xliv. 17. But we will certainly do whatsoever thing goeth 
forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense unto the queen of heav- 
en, and to pour out drink-offerings unto her, as we have done, we and 
our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in 
the streets of Jerusalem. 

2 Isa. lxv. 3, 4, 5. A people that provoketh me to anger continually 
to my face; that sacrificeth in gardens, and burnetii incense upon 
altars of brick ;— which eat swine's flesh, and broth of abominable 
things is in their vessels ; which say, Stand by thyself, come not near 
to me, for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a 
fire that burnetii all the day. Gal. i. 13, 14.— How that beyond measure 
I persecuted the church of God, and w r asted it ; and profited in the 
Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more 
exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. 

a 1 Sam. xiii. 11, 12. I forced myself, therefore, and offered a burnt- 
offering. 1 Sam. xv. 21. But the people (said Saul) took of the spoil, 
sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been ut- 
terly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the Lord thy God in Gilgal. 

b Acts viii. 18, 19, 22. And when Simon saw that through the laying 
on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them 
money, etc. 

« Rom. ii. 22. Thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege ? 
Mai. iii. 8. Will a man rob God ? yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, 
Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. 

d Ex. iv. 24, 25, 26. And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that 
the Lord met him, and sought to kill him, etc. 

« Matt. xxii. 5. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one 
to his farm, another to his merchandise. Mai. i. 7, 13. Ye offer pol- 
luted bread upon mine altar— Ye say, The table of the Lord is con- 
temptible—Ye said also, Behold, what a weariness is it! and ye have 
snuffed at it, saith the Lord of hosts: and ye brought that which was 
torn, and the lame and the sick. 

/Matt, xxiii. 13. Bat woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypo- 
crites ! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men ; for ye nei- 
ther go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering, to go in. 

o Acts xiii. 45. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were 
filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken 
by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. 1 Thess. ii. 15, 16. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 187 

Q. 110. What are the reasons annexed to the second com- 
mandment^ the more to enforce it ? 

A. The reasons annexed to the second commandment, 
the more to enforce it, contained in these words, For I the 
Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the 
fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation 
of them that hate me : and showing mercy unto thousands of 
them that love me, and keep my commandments ; h are, besides 
God's sovereignty over us, and propriety in us/ his fervent 
zeal for his own worship/' and his revengeful indignation 
against all false worship, as being a spiritual whoredom ; k 
accounting the breakers of this commandment such as hate 
him, and threatening to punish them unto divers genera- 
tions : l and esteeming the observers of it such as love him 
and keep his commandments, and promising mercy to 
them unto many generations."* 

Q. 111. Which is the third commandment f 

A. The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the 

>« Ex. xx. 5, 6. 

* Psa. xlv. 11.— He is thy Lord ; and worship thou him. Rev. xv. 3, 
4. And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song 
of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous are thy works, Lord God 
Almighty ; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Who shall 
not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name ? for thou only art holy. 

3 Ex. xxxiv. 13, 14. But ye shall destroy their altars, break their 
images, and cut down their groves : for thou shalt worship no other 
god ; for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. 

* 1 Cor. x. 20, 21, 22. But I say, that the things which the Gentiles 
sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God : and I would not that 
ye should have fellowship with devils. Ye cannot drink the cup of 
the Lord, and the cup of devils : ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's 
table, and of the table of devils. Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy ? 
Are we stronger than he ? Deut. xxxii. 16, 17, 18, 19. Jer. vii. 18, 19, 20. 
Ezek. xvi. 26, 27. 

1 Hos. ii. 2, 3, 4. Plead with your mother, plead ; for she is not my 
wife, neither am I her husband : let her therefore put away her whore- 
doms,— and her adulteries from between her breasts ; lest I strip her 
naked, and set her as in the day that she was born, and make her as a 
wilderness, and set her like a dry land, and slay her with thirst. And 
I will not have mercy upon her children ; for they be the children of 
whoredoms. 

m Deut. v. 29. O that there were such a heart in them, that they 
would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might 
be well with them, and with their children for ever! 



188 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

name of the Lord thy God in vain : for the Lord will not 
hold him guiltless that taheth his name in vain. n 
Q. 112. What is required in the third commandment f 
A. The third commandment requires, that the name of 
God, his titles, attributes, ordinances, p the word, g sacra- 
ments, r prayer,* oaths/ vows," lots,* his works, 10 and what- 
soever else there is whereby he makes himself known, be 
holily and reverently used in thought,* meditation/ word,* 
and writing ; a by an holy profession, 6 and answerable 

» Ex. xx. 7. 

Matt. vi. 9. After this manner therefore pray ye : Our Father 
which art in heaven ; hallowed be thy name. Deut. xxviii. 58.— That 
thou mayest fear this glorious and fearful name, THE LORD THY 
GOD. Psa. lxviii. 4. Extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his 
name J AH. Psa. xxix. 2. Rev. xv. 3, 4. See letter (•), page 187. 

p Ecel. v. 1. Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and 
be more ready to hear than to give the sacrifice of fools : for they con- 
sider not that they do evil. Mai. i. 14. 

i Psa. cxxxviii. 2. I will worship toward thy holy temple, and 
praise thy name for thy loving-kindness, and for thy truth : for thou 
hast magnified thy word above all thy name. 

r 1 Cor. xi. from verse 24 to 29. But let a man examine himself, and 
so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth 
and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, 
not discerning the Lord's body. 

8 1 Tim. ii. 8. I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up 
holy hands, without wrath and doubting. 

*Jer. iv. 2. And thou shalt swear, The Lord liveth, in truth, in 
judgment, and in righteousness. 

u Eccl. v. 2, 4. Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart 
be hasty to utter any thing before God : for God is in heaven, and thou 
upon earth :— When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it. 

» Acts i. 24, 26. And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which know- 
est the hearts of all men, show whether of these two thou hast chosen. 
—And they gave forth their lots : and the lot fell upon Matthias. 

» Job xxxvi. 24. Remember that thou magnify his work, etc. 

x Mai. iii. 16. And a book of remembrance was written before him 
for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. 

y Psa. viii. throughout.— Wh en I consider thy heavens, the work of 
thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained ; what 
is man that thou art mindful of him?— O Lord our Lord, how excel- 
lent is thy name in all the earth ! 

■ Psa. cv. 2, 5. Talk ye of all his wondrous works, etc. Col. iii. 17. 

« Psa. cii. 18. This shall be written for the generation to come : and 
the people which shall be created shall praise the Lord. 

& 1 Pet. iii. 15. Be ready always to give an answer to every man that 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 189 

conversation, to the glory of God, d and the good of our- 
selves e and others. / 

Q. 113. What are the sins forbidden in the third command- 
ment f 

A. The sins forbidden in the third commandment are, 
the not using of God's name as is required; 5 ' and the 
abuse of it in an ignorant, 7 * vain,* irreverent, profane/' 
superstitious,* or wicked, mentioning or otherwise using 
his titles, attributes/ ordinances, 771 or works, 71 by blasphe- 

asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and 
fear. Mic. iv. 5.— We will walk in the name of the Lord our God for 
ever and ever. 

« Phil. i. 27. Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel 
of Christ. 

d 1 Cor. x. 31. Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye 
do, do all to the glory of God. 

■ Jer. xxxii. 39. And I will give them one heart, and one way, that 
they may fear me for ever, for the good of them. 

/ 1 Pet. ii. 12. Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles ; 
that, whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may, by your 
good works which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visita- 
tion. 

9 Mai. ii. 2. If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to 
give glory unto my name, saith the Lord of hosts, I will even send a 
curse upon you and I will curse your blessings. 

h Acts xvii. 23. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship. 

* Prov. xxx. 9. Lest I be full and deny thee, and say, Who is the Lord ? 
Or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain. 

Mai. i. 6, 7, 12. If then I be a father, where is my honor ? And if 
I be a master, where is my fear? saith the Lord of hosts unto you, O 
priests, that despise my name. — But ye have profaned it, in that ye 
say, The table of the Lord is polluted ; and the fruit thereof, even his 
meat, is contemptible. Mai. iii. 14. 

* Jer. vii. 4, 9, 10, 14, 31. Trust ye not in lying words, saying, The 
temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, 
are these, etc. Col. ii. 20, 21, 22. 

1 Ex. v. 2. And Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord, that I should obey 
his voice to let Israel go? Psa. cxxxix. 20. For they speak against 
thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain. 

m Psa. 1. 16, 17. But unto the wicked God saith, W r hat hast thou to 
do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in 
thy mouth ? seeing thou hatest instruction, and castest my words be- 
hind thee. 

n Isa. v. 12. And the harp, and the viol, the tabret, and pipe, and 
wine, are in their feasts: but they regard not the work of the Lord, 
neither consider the operation of his hands. 



190 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

my, perjury ; p all sinful cursing,* oaths,* vows/ and lots;* 
violating of our oaths and vows, if lawful ; u and fullfilling 
them, if of things unlawful ; v murmuring and quarreling at, w 
curious prying into,* and misapplying of God's decrees y 
and providences ; z misinterpreting," misapplying, 6 or any 

2 Kings xix. 22. Whom hast thou reproached and blasphemed ? 
and against whom hast thou exalted thy voice, and lifted up thine 
eyes on high ? even against the Holy One of Israel. Lev. xxiv. 11. 

p Zech. v. 4. And it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into 
the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name ; and it shall re- 
main in the midst of his house, and shall consume it. 

? Rom. xii. 14. Bless, and curse not. 1 Sam. xvii. 43. 2 Sam. xvi. 5. 

r Jer. v. 7. Thy children have forsaken me, and sworn by them that 
are no gods. Jer. xxiii. 10. For because of swearing the land mourn- 
eth. 

8 Deut. xxiii. 18. Thou shalt not bring the hire of a whore, or the 
price of a dog, into the house of the Lord thy God for any vow. Acts 
xxiii. 12, 14. And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded to- 
gether, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would 
neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. 

' Esth. iii. 7, and ix. 24. They cast Pur, that is, the lot, before Ha- 
inan, from day to day.— Because Haman— had devised against the 
Jews, to destroy them, and had cast Pur. 

u Psa. xxiv. 4. Who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor 
sworn deceitfully. Ezek. xvii. 16, 18, 19.— Surely mine oath that he 
hath despised, and my covenant that he hath broken, even it will I 
recompense upon his own head. 

v Mark vi. 26. And the king was exceeding sorry : yet for his oath's 
sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her. 
1 Sam. xxv. 22, 32, 33, 34. 

» Rom. ix. 14, 19, 20. Is there unrighteousness with God ? God for- 
bid.— Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? 
Nay, but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the 
thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me 
thus? 

* Deut. xxix. 29. The secret things belong unto the Lord. 

y Rom. iii. 5, 7, 8. But if our unrighteousness commend the right- 
eousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh 
vengeance ?— For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my 
lie unto his glory ; why yet am I also judged as a sinner? etc. 

z Eccl. viii. 11. Because sentence against an evil work is not exe- 
cuted speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in 
them to do evil. Psa. lxxiii. 12, 13. 

« Matt. v. 21 to the end. 

b Ezek. xiii. 22. Because with lies ye have made the heart of the 
righteous sad, whom I have not made sad ; and strengthened the 
hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked way, 
by promising him life. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 191 

way perverting the word, or any part of it, c to profane 
jests, d curious and unprofitable questions, vain janglings, 
or the maintaining of false doctrines; 6 abusing it, the 
creatures, or any thing contained under the name of 
God, to charms/ or sinful lusts and practices ; 9 the ma- 
ligning, 7 * scorning/ reviling/' or any wise opposing of 
God's truth, grace, and w r ays ; k making profession of relig- 
ion in hypocrisy, or for sinister ends ; l being ashamed of 

e 2 Pet. iii. 16. In which are some things hard to be understood, 
which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the 
other Scriptures, unto their own destruction. Matt. xxii. 24-31. — Ye 
do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God, etc. 

d Jer. xxiii. 34, 36, 38. 

e 1 Tim. vi. 4, 5, 20. He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about 
questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, 
evil surmisings, perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and 
destitute of the truth.— Avoiding profane and vain babblings, and op- 
positions of science falsely so called. 2 Tim. ii. 14.— Charging them 
before the Lord, that they strive not about words to no profit, but to 
the subverting of the hearers. Tit. iii. 9. 

/Deut. xviii. 10 to 14. There shall not be found among you any one 
that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that 
useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, 
or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a 
necromancer. Acts xix. 13. 

9 2 Tim. iv. 3, 4. For the time will come when they will not endure 
sound doctrine ; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves 
teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears 
from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. Jude 4. Rom. xiii. 
13, 14. 1 Kings xxi. 9, 10. 

h Acts xiii. 45. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were 
filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken 
by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. 1 John iii. 12. 

* 2 Pet. iii. 3. Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last 
day scoffers, walking after their own lusts. Psa. i. 1. — Nor sitteth in 
the seat of the scornful. 

i 1 Pet. iv. 4. Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with 
them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you. 

* Acts xiii. 45, 46, 50. See letter (»), above. But the Jews stirred up 
the devout and honorable women, and the chief men of the city, and 
raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out 
of their coasts. Acts iv. 18. — And commanded them not to speak at all, 
nor teach in the name of Jesus. Acts xix. 9. 1 Thess. ii. 16. Heb. x. 29. 

1 2 Tim. iii. 5. Having a form of godliness, but denying the power 
thereof. Matt, xxiii. 14. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypo- 
crites ! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long 
prayers. Matt. vi. 1, 2, 3, 5, 16. 



192 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

it,™ or a shame to it, by uncomfortable/ 1 unwise, unfruit- 
ful* and offensive walking/ or backsliding from it. r 

Q. 114. What reasons are annexed to the third command- 
ment ? 

A. The reasons annexed to the third commandment, in 
these words, " the Lord thy God," and u for the Lord will 
not hold him guiltless that taJceth his name in vain "'* are, be- 
cause he is the Lord and our God, therefore his name is 
not to be profaned or any way abused by us ; t especially 
because he will be so far from acquitting and sparing the 
transgressors of this commandment, as that he will not 
suffer them to escape his righteous judgment,** albeit many 
such escape the censures and punishments of men." 

Q. 115. Wliich is the fourth commandment ? 

A. The fourth commandment is, Remember the Sabbath- 

"* Mark viii. 38. Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me, and 
of my words, in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also 
shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his 
Father, with the holy angels. 

n Psa. lxxiii. 14, 15. For all the day long have I been plagued, and 
chastened every morning, etc. 

Eph. v. 15, 16, 17. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, 
but as wise.— Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what 
the will of the Lord is. 1 Cor. vi. 5, 6. 

p Isa. v. 4. What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I 
have not done in it? Wherefore, when I looked that it should bring 
forth grapes, brought it forth wild grapes ? 2 Pet. i. 8, 9. 

9 Rom. ii. 23, 24. Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through 
breaking the law dishonorest thou God? For the name of God is 
blasphemed among the Gentiles, through you. 

r Gal. iii. 1, 3. O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye 
should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been 
evidently set forth, crucified among you ?— Are ye so foolish ? Having 
begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh ? Heb. vi. 6. 

■ Ex. xx. 7. 

* Lev. xix. 12. And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither 
shalt thou profane the name of thy God. I am the Lord. 

u Deut. xxviii. 58, 59. If thou wilt not observe to do all the words 
of this law that are written in this book, that thou mayest fear this 
glorious and fearful name, THE LORD THY GOD ; then the Lord will 
make thy plagues wonderful, and the plagues of thy seed, even great 
plagues, and of long continuance. Zech. v. 2, 3, 4. Ezek. xxxvi. 21, 
22, 23. 

v 1 Sam. ii. 12, 17, 22. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 193 

day to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy 
work : but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy 
God : in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor 
thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy 
cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates ; for in six 
days the I^ord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in 
them is, and rested the seventh day : wherefore the Lord blessed 
the Sabbath-day and hallowed it. w 

Q. 116. What h required in the fourth commandment? 

A. The fourth commandment requireth of all men the 
sanctifying or keeping holy to God such set times as he 
hath appointed in his word, expressly one whole day in 
seven ; which was the seventh from the beginning of the 
world to the resurrection of Christ, and the first day of the 
week ever since, and so to continue to the end of the world; 
which is the Christian Sabbath,* and in the New Testament 
called The Lord's day. y 

Q. 117. How is the Sabbath or LoroVs day to be sancti- 
fied? 

A. The Sabbath or Lord's day is to be sanctified by an 
holy resting all that day, 2 ' not only from such works as are 
at all times sinful, but even from such worldly employ- 
ments and recreations as are on other days lawful ; a and 

" Ex. xx. 8, 9, 10, 11. 

x Gen. ii. 3. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it ; be- 
cause that in it he had rested from all his work. 1 Cor. xvi. 1, 2.— Upon 
the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as 
God hath prospered him. Acts xx. 7. And upon the first day of the 
week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached 
unto them, ready to depart on the morrow. John xx. 19 to 27. Matt. 
v. 17, 18. Isa. Ivi. 2, 4, 6, 7. Blessed is the man that doeth this,— that 
keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, etc. 

v Rev. i. 10. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day. 

2 Ex. xx. 8, 10. Remember the Sabbath-day to keep it holy. — In it 
thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, etc. 

° Ex. xvi. 25 to 29. And Moses said, Eat that to-day ; for to-day is a 
Sabbath unto the Lord; to-day ye shall not find it in the field. Six 
days ye shall gather it ; but on the seventh day, which is the Sabbath, 
in it there shall be none, etc. Jer. xvii. 21, 22. Thus saith the Lord, 
Take heed to yourselves, and bear no burden on the Sabbath-day, nor 
bring it in by the gates of Jerusalem : neither carry forth a burden 
out of your houses on the Sabbath-day, neither do ye any work ; but 
13 



194 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

making it our delight to spend the whole time (except so 
much of it as is to be taken up in works of necessity and 
mercy) 6 in the public and private exercises of God's wor- 
ship. 6 And, to that end, we are to prepare our hearts, and 
with such foresight, diligence, and moderation, to dispose, 
and seasonably to despatch our worldly business, that we 
may be the more free and fit for the duties of that day. d 

Q. 118. Why is the charge of keeping the Sabbath more 
specially directed to governors of families and other superi- 
ors t 

A. The charge of keeping the Sabbath is more specially 
directed to governors of families and other superiors, be- 
cause they are bound not only to keep it themselves, but 
to see that it be observed by all those that are under their 
charge; and because they are prone oft-times to hinder 
them by employments of their own.* 

hallow ye the Sabbath-day as I commanded your fathers. Neh. xiii. 
15 to 23. In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine-presses on 
the Sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, 
grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens.— Then I contended with 
the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that 
ye do, and profane the Sabbath-day ? 

b Matt. xii. 1 to 14. At that time Jesus went on the Sabbath-day, 
through the corn ; and his disciples were an hungered, and began to 
pluck the ears of corn, and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, 
they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful 
to do upon the Sabbath-day. But he said unto them, etc. 

c Lev. xxiii. 3. Six days shall work be done ; but the seventh day is 
the Sabbath of rest, a holy convocation. Isa. lviii. 13. And call the 
Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable : and shalt honor 
him, not doing thine own ways, nor rinding thine own pleasure, nor 
speaking thine own words. Luke iv. 16.— And as his custom was, he 
went into the synagogue on the Sabbath-day, and stood up for to read. 
Acts xx. 7. 

d Ex. xx. 8. Remember the Sabbath-day to keep it holy. Luke 
xxiii. 54, 56. And that day was the preparation, and the Sabbath 
drew on, etc. Neh. xiii. 19. And it came to pass, that, when the gates 
of Jerusalem began to be dark before the Sabbath, I commanded that 
the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened 
till after the Sabbath. 

« See letter ( a ), page 193. Ex. xx. 10. In it (the Sabbath) thou shalt 
not do any work, thou, nor thy son, etc. Ex. xxiii. 12.— That thine ox 
and thine ass may rest, and the son of thy handmaid, and the stranger, 
may be refreshed. Ex. xvi. 22, 25, 29. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 195 

Q. 119. What are the sins forbidden in the fourth com- 
mandment ? 

A. The sins forbidden in the fourth commandment are, 
all omissions of the duties required/ all careless, negligent, 
and unprofitable performing of them, and being weary of 
them ; 9 all profaning the day by idleness, and doing that 
which is in itself sinful ; * and by all needless works, words, 
and thoughts, about our worldly employments and recrea- 
tions.* 

Q. 120. What are the reasons annexed to the fourth com- 
mandment, the more to enforce it f 

A. The reasons annexed to the fourth commandment, 
the more to enforce it, are taken from the equity of it, 
God allowing us six days of seven for our own affairs, and 
reserving but one for himself, in these words, six days shalt 
thou labor and do all thy work : j from God's challenging a 
special propriety in that day, the seventh day is the Sabbath 
of the Lord thy God: 11 from the example of God, who in six 
days made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, 
and rested the seventh day : and from that blessing which 
God put upon that day, not only in sanctifying it to be a 
day for his service, but in ordaining it to be a means of 



/ Ezek. xxii. 26. Her priests have violated my law, and have pro- 
faned my holy things ;— and have hid their eyes from my Sabbaths, 
and I am profaned among them. 

9 Ezek. xxxiii. 30. 31, 32. And they come nnto thee as the people 
cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy 
words, but they will not do them : for with their mouth they show 
much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness. Mai. i. 13. 
Ye said also, Behold, what a weariness is it ! and ye have snuffed at it, 
saith the Lord of hosts : and ye brought that which was torn, and the 
lame, and the sick. Amosviii.5. Acts xx. 7, 9. 

h Ezek. xxiii. 38. Moreover, this they have done unto me ; they have 
denied my sanctuary in the same day, and have profaned my Sab- 
baths. 

» Jer. xvii. 24, 27.— But if ye will not hearken unto me, to hallow 
the Sabbath-day, and not to bear a burden, — then will I kindle a fire 
in the gates thereof, and it shall devour the palaces of Jerusalem, and 
it shall not be quenched. Isa. lviii. 13. 

i Ex. xx. 9. 

* Ex. xx. 10. 



196 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

blessing to us in our sanctifying it, wherefore the Lord 
blessed the Sabbath-day and hallowed it} 

Q. 121. Why is the word remember set in the beginning 
of the fourth commandment f 

A. The word remember is set in the beginning of the 
fourth commandment,™ partly, because of the great benefit 
of remembering it, we being thereby helped in our prepa- 
ration to keep it ; n and, in keeping it, better to keep all 
the rest of the commandments, and to continue a thank- 
ful remembrance of the two great benefits of creation and 
redemption, which contain a short abridgment of religion : p 
and partly because we are ready to forget it,* 7 for that there 
is less light of nature for it, r and yet it restraineth our nat- 
ural liberty in things at other times lawful ; * that it Com- 
eth but once in seven days, and many worldly businesses 
come between, and too often take off our minds from 

i Ex. xx. 11. 

m Ex. xx. 8. 

n Ex. xvi. 23. To-morrow is the rest of the holy Sabbath unto the 
Lord : bake that which ye will bake to-day, and seethe that ye will 
seethe. Luke xxiii. 54, 56. And that day was the preparation, and 
the Sabbath drew on, etc. Compared with Mark xv. 42. And now, 
when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the 
day before the Sabbath. Neh. xiii. 19. 

Ezek. xx. 12, 19, 20. Moreover also, I gave them my Sabbaths, to be 
a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the 
Lord that sanctify them. — And hallow my Sabbaths ; and they shall 
be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord 
your God. 

p Gen. ii. 2, 3. And on the seventh day God ended his work which 
he had made ; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work 
which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified 
it : because that in it he had rested from all his work which God cre- 
ated and made. Psa. cxviii. 22, 24. The stone which the builders re- 
fused, is become the head-stone of the corner.— This is the day which 
the Lord hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Rev. i. 10. I 
was in the Spirit on the Lord's day.— Heb. iv. 9. 

i Ezek. xxii. 26. Her priests have violated my law, — and have hid 
their eyes from my Sabbaths. 

r Neh. ix. 14. And madest known unto them thy holy Sabbath, and 
commandedst them precepts, statutes, and law T s,by the hand of Moses 
thy servant. 

■ Ex. xxxiv. 21. Six days thou shalt work ; but on the seventh day 
thou shalt rest : in earing-time and in harvest thou shalt rest. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 197 

thinking of it, either to prepare for it, or to sanctify it ; l 
and that Satan with his instruments, much labor to blot 
out the glory, and even the memory of it, and to bring in 
all irreligion and impiety . u 

Q. 122. What is the sum of the six commandments which 
contain our duty to man ? 

A. The sum of the six commandments which contain 
our duty to man, is, to love our neighbor as ourselves,* and 
to do to others what we would have them to do to us.™ 

Q. 123. Which is the fifth commandment f 

A. The fifth commandment is, Honor thy father and thy 
mother, that thy days may be long upon the land which the 
Lord thy God giveth thee. x 

Q. 124. Who are meant by father and mother, in the fifth 
commandment f 

A. By father and mother, in the fifth commandment, are 
meant not only natural parents/ but all superiors in age z 
and gifts ; a and especially such as by God's ordinance are 



* Ex. xx. 9. Six days thou shalt labor. Amos viii. 5. — When will the 
new moon be gone,— and the Sabbath, that we may set forth wheat? 
etc. 

u Lam. i. 7. Jerusalem remembered in the days of her affliction and 
of her miseries, all the pleasant things that she had in the days of 
old, when her people fell into the hand of the enemy, and none did 
help her: the adversaries saw her, and did mock at her Sabbaths. 
Neh. xiii. from verse 15 to 23. In those days saw I in Judah, some 
treading wine-presses on the Sabbath. Jer. xvii. 21, 22, 23. 

v Matt. xxii. 39. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy 
neighbor as thyself. 

* Matt. vii. 12. Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men 
should do to you, do ye even so to them, for this is the law and the 
prophets. 

* Ex. xx. 12. 

v Prov. xxiii. 22, 25. Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and 
despise not thy mother when she is old.— Thy father and thy mother 
shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice. Eph. vi. 1, 2. 

* 1 Tim. v. 1, 2. Rebuke not an elder, but entreat him as a father ; 
and the younger men as brethren ; the elder women as mothers ; the 
younger as sisters. 

° Gen. iv. 20, 21. And Adah bare Jabal : he was the father of such as 
dwell in tents, and of such as have cattle. And his brother's name 
was Jubal : he was the father of all such as handle the harp and organ. 
Gen. xlv. 8.— And he hath made me a father to Pharaoh. 



198 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

over us in place of authority, whether in family, 6 church, 
or commonwealth.^ 

Q. 125. Why are superiors styled father and mother ? 

A. Superiors are styled father and mother, both to teach 
them in all duties towards their inferiors, like natural par- 
ents, to express love and tenderness to them, according to 
their several relations ; e and to work inferiors to a greater 
willingness and cheerfulness in performing their duties to 
their superiors, as to their parents/ 

Q. 126. What is the general scope of the fifth command- 
ment f 

A. The general scope of the fifth commandment is the 
performance of those duties which we mutually owe in our 
several relations, as inferiors, superiors, or equals.** 

Q. 127. What is the honor that inferiors owe to supe- 
riors ? 

A. The honor which inferiors owe to their superiors is, 



b 2 Kings v. 13. And his servants came near, and spake unto him, 
and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, 
wouldst thou not have done it ? 

• Gal. iv. 19. My little children, of whom I travail in birth again 
until Christ be formed in you. 2 Kings ii. 12. And Elisha saw it, and 
he cried, My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horse- 
men thereof! 2 Kings xiii. 1-4. 

d Isa. xlix. 23. And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their 
queens thy nursing mothers. 

« Eph. vi. 4. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: 
but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 1 
Thess. ii. 7, 8, 11. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse 
cherisheth her children : so, being affectionately desirous of you, we 
were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, 
but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.— As ye know 
how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a 
father doth his children. Num. xi. 11, 12, 16. 

/ 1 Cor. iv. 14, 15, 16. I write not these things to shame you, but, as 
my beloved sons, I warn you. For though ye have ten thousand in- 
structors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers : for in Christ Jesus 
I have begotten you through the gospel. Wherefore, I beseech you, 
be ye followers of me. 

ff Eph. v. 21. Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of 
God. 1 Pet. ii. 17. Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. 
Honor the king. Rom. xii. 10. Be kindly aifectioned one to another, 
with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another. 






THE LARGER CATECHISM. 199 

all due reverence in heart,* word/ and behavior;- 7 ' prayer 
and thanksgiving for them ; k imitation of their virtues 
and graces ; l willing obedience to their lawful commands 
and counsels ; m due submission to their corrections ; n fidel- 
ity to, defence p and maintenance of their persons and au- 
thority, according to their several ranks, and the nature 
of their places; 3 bearing with their infirmities, and cov- 

h Mai. i. 6 A son honoreth his father, and a servant his master : if 
then I be a father, where is my honor ? and if I be a master, where is 
my fear? Lev. xix. 3. Ye shall fear every man his mother and his 
father. 

* Prov. xxxi. 28. Her children arise np, and call her blessed; her 
husband also, and he praiseth her. 1 Pet. iii. 6. Even as Sarah obeyed 
Abraham, calling him lord. 

J Lev. xix. 32. Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honor 
the face of the old man. 1 Kings ii. 19.— And she sat on his right 
hand. 

* 1 Tim. ii. 1, 2. I exhort, therefore, that, first of all, supplications, 
prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men ; for 
kings, and for all that are in authority. 

1 Heb. xiii. 7. Remember them which have the rule over you, who 
have spoken unto you the word of God ; whose faith follow, consider- 
ing the end of their conversation. Phil. iii. 17. Brethren, be followers 
together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an 
ensample. 

m Eph. vi. 1, 2, 5, 6, 7. Children, obey your parents in the Lord :— 
Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters, according to the 
flesh, etc. 1 Pet. ii. 13, 14. Submit yourselves to every ordinance of 
man for the Lord's sake ; whether it be to the king, as supreme, or 
unto governors, etc. Rom. xiii. from 1 to 6. Heb. xiii. 17. Prov. iv. 
3, 4 ; and xxiii. 22. 

n Heb. xii. 9. Furthermore, we have had fathers of our flesh which 
corrected us, and we gave them reverence. 1 Pet. ii. 18, 19, 20. Ser- 
vants, be subject to your masters, with all fear;— but if, when ye do 
well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. 

Tit. ii. 9, 10. Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own mas- 
ters, and to please them well in all things ; not answering again ; not 
purloining, but showing all good fidelity ; that they may adorn the 
doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. 

p 1 Sam. xxvi. 15, 16. Wherefore then hast thou not kept thy lord 
the king? — As the Lord liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have 
not kept your master, the Lord's anointed. 2 Sam. xviii. 3. Esth. 
vi. 2. 

9 Matt. xxii. 21. Render therefore unto Caesar, the things which are 
Caesar's. Rom. xiii. 6, 7.— For this cause pay ye tribute also . for they 
are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Ren- 
der therefore to all their dues : tribute to whom tribute is due ; custom 



200 1HE LARGER CATECHISM. 

ering them in love/ that so they may be an honor to them 
and to their government. 8 

Q. 128. What are the sins of inferiors against their su- 
periors f 

A. The sins of inferiors against their superiors are, all 
neglect of the duties required toward them ; t envying at/ 
contempt of/ and rebellion 10 against their persons x and 
places/ in their lawful counsels/ commands and correc- 
tions ; a cursing, mocking/ and all such refractory and 

to whom custom ; fear to whom fear ; honor to whom honor. 1 Tim. 
v. 17, 18. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double 
honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine. — Thou 
shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The laborer 
is worthy of his reward. Gal. vi. 6. Gen. xlv. 11, and xlvii. 12. 

r Gen. ix. 23. And Shem and Japhet took a garment, and laid it 
upon both their shoulders, and went backward, and covered the 
nakedness of their father : and their faces were backward, and they 
saw not their father's nakedness. 1 Pet. ii. 18. Prov. xxiii. 22. 

8 Psa. cxxvii. 3, 4, 5. Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord.— Happy 
is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be 
ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate. Prov. 
xxxi. 23. Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among 
the elders of the land. 

* Matt. xv. 4, 5, 6. — But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or 
his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me ; 
and honor not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have 
ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. 

" Num. xi. 28, 29. And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my 
sake? Would God that all the Lord's people were prophets. 

v 1 Sam. viii. 7. For they have not rejected thee, but they have re- 
jected me, that I should not reign over them. Isa. iii. 5.— The child 
shall behave himself proudly against the ancient, and the base against 
the honorable. 

w 2 Sam. xv. from verse 1 to 12. And it came to pass after this, that 
Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, etc. 

* Ex. xxi. 15. And he that smiteth his father, or his mother, shall 
be surely put to death. 

y 1 Sam. x. 27. But the children of Belial said, How shall this man 
save us? And they despised him, and brought him no presents. 

2 1 Sam. ii. 25. Notwithstanding, they hearkened not unto the voice 
of their father, because the Lord would slay them. 

a Dent. xxi. 18, 19, 20, 21. And they shall say unto the elders of his 
city, This our son is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey our 
voice ; he is a glutton and a drunkard. And all the men of his city 
shall stone him with stones, that he die. 

6 Prov. xxx. 11, 17. There is a generation that curseth their father, 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 201 

scandalous carriage, as proves a shame and dishonor to 
them and their government. 

Q. 129. What is required of superiors towards their in- 
feriors ? 

A. It is required of superiors, according to that power 
they receive from God, and that relation wherein they 
stand, to love, d pray for, 6 and bless their inferiors ^ to in- 
struct/ counsel, and admonish them ; h countenancing/ 
commending, j and rewarding such as do well ; k and dis- 
countenancing/ reproving, and chastising such as do ill; m 
protecting,™ and providing for them all things necessary 



and doth not bless their mother. The eye that mocketh at his father, 
and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick 
it out, and the young eagles shall eat it. 

c Prov. xix. 26. He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his 
mother, is a son that causeth shame, and bringeth reproach. 

d Col. iii. 19. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against 
them. Tit. ii. 4. 

e 1 Sam. xii. 23. Moreover, as for me, God forbid that I should sin 
against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you. Job i. 5. 

/I Kings viii. 55, 56. And he stood, and blessed all the congregation 
of Israel with a loud voice, etc. Gen. xlix. 28. 

9 Deut. vi. 6, 7. And these words, which I command thee this day, 
shall be in thine heart : and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy 
children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and 
when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when 
thou risest up. 

h Eph. vi. 4. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: 
but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 

* 1 Pet. iii. 7. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to 
knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and 
as being heirs together of the grace of life. 

i Rom. xiii. 3. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the 
evil. — Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same. 
1 Pet. ii. 14. 

* Esth. vi. 3. And the king said, What honor and dignity hath been 
done to Mordecai for this ? 

*Rom. xiii. 4. He is the minister of God,— a revenger to execute 
wrath upon him that doeth evil. 

m Prov. xxix. 15. The rod and reproof give wisdom : but a child 
left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. Rom. xiii. 4. 

n Job xxix. from the 12th verse to the 18th. Because I delivered the 
poor that cried, and the fatherless, and him that had none to help him, 
etc. Isa. i. 10. 17.— Relieve the oppressed ; judge the fatherless ; plead 
for the widow. 



202 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

for soul and body : p and, by grave, wise, holy, and exem- 
plary carriage, to procure glory to God/ honor to them- 
selves, 7 * and so to preserve that authority which God hath 
put upon them. s 

Q. 130. Wliat are the sins of superiors f 

A. The sins of superiors are, besides the neglect of the 
duties required of them/ an inordinate seeking of them- 
selves," their own glory , v ease, profit, or pleasure ; w com- 
manding things unlawful, 2 or not in the power of inferiors 
to perform ; y counseling/ encouraging,* or favoring them 



o Eph. vi. 4. See letter ( 7i ), page 201. 

p 1 Tim. v. 8. But if any provide not for his own, and specially for 
those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than 
an infidel. 

9 1 Tim. iv. 12. Let no man despise thy youth ; hut be thou an ex- 
ample of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, 
in faith, in purity. Tit. ii. 3, 4, 5. 

r 1 Kings iii. 28. And all Israel heard of the judgment which the 
king had judged; and they feared the king: for they saw that the wis- 
dom of God was in him, to do judgment. 

8 Tit. ii. 15. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all 
authority. Let no man despise thee. 

' Ezek. xxxiv. 2, 3, 4. Should not the shepherds feed the flocks ?— 
The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that 
which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, 
neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither 
have ye sought that which was lost. 

u Phil. ii. 21. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus 
Christ's. 

v John v. 44. How can ye believe, which receive honor one of an- 
other, and seek not the honor that cometh from God only ? John vii. 
18. 

w Isa. lvi. 10, 11. His watchmen are blind : they are all ignorant, 
they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark ; sleeping, lying down, lov- 
ing to slumber. Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have 
enough. Deut. xvii. 17. — Neither shall he greatly multiply to himself 
silver and gold. 

* Acts iv. 17, 18. And they called them, and commanded them not 
to speak at all, nor teach, in the name of Jesus. Dan. iii. 4, 5, 6. 

v Ex. v. from verse 10 to the 19th.— There shall no straw be given you, 
yet shall ye deliver the tale of bricks, etc. Matt, xxiii. 2, 4. 

* Matt. xiv. 8, compared with Mark vi. 24. And she went forth, and 
said unto her mother, What shall I ask ? And she said, The head of 
John the Baptist. 

a Jer. v. 30, 31. A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 203 

in that which is evil ; l dissuading, discouraging, or dis- 
countenancing them in that which is good ; c correcting 
them unduly ; d careless exposing, or leaving them to 
wrong, temptation, and danger ; e provoking them to 
wrath/ or any way dishonoring themselves, or lessening 
their authority, by an unjust, indiscreet, rigorous, or re- 
miss behavior. 5 ' 

Q. 131. What are the duties of equals ? 

A. The duties of equals are, to regard the dignity and 

land : the prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their 
means ; and my people love to have it so : and what will ye do in the 
end thereof? 2 Sam. xiii. 28. 

b Jer. vi. 13, 14. From the prophet even unto the priest, every one 
dealeth falsely. They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of 
my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace : when there is no peace. 
Ezek. xiii. 9, 10. 

c John vii. 46, 47, 48, 49. The officers answered, Never man spake 
like this man. Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also de- 
ceived? Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him ? 
But this people, who knoweth not the law, are cursed. John ix. 28. 
Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciples : but we are 
Moses' disciples. 

d 1 Pet. ii. 19, 20. For this is thank-worthy, if a man for conscience 
toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, 
if when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently ? But 
if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is ac- 
ceptable with God. Heb. xii. 10.— They verily for a few days chas- 
tened us after their own pleasure ; but he for our profit, that we might 
be partakers of his holiness. Deut. xxv. 3. 

e Lev. xix. 29. Do not prostitute thy daughter. Isa. lviii. 7. Is it 
not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that 
are cast out to thy house ? When thou seest the naked, that thou cover 
him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Gen. 
xxxviii. 11, 26. 

/Eph. vi. 4. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath. 

9 Gen. ix. 21. And he drank of the wine, and was drunken ; and he 
was uncovered within his tent. 1 Kings xii. 13, 14. And the king 
[Rehoboam] answered the people roughly, and forsook the old men's 
counsel that they gave him ; and spake to them after the counsel of 
the young men, saying, My father made your yoke heavy, and I will 
add to your yoke ; my father also chastised you with whips, but I will 
chastise you with scorpions. 1 Kings i. 6. And his father had not dis- 
pleased him at any time in saying, Why hast thou done so ? 1 Sam. 
iii. 13. For I have told him, [Eli] that I will judge his house for ever, 
for the iniquity which he knoweth ; because his sons made themselves 
vile, and he restrained them not. 



204 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

worth of each other, 7 * in giving honor to go one before an- 
other;* and to rejoice in each other's gifts and advance- 
ment as their own.-'' 

Q. 132. What are the sins of equals ? 

A, The sins of equals are, besides the neglect of the 
duties required,* the undervaluing of the worth/ envying 
the gifts, 771 grieving at the advancement or prosperity one 
of another; 71 and usurping pre-eminence one over an- 
other. 

Q. 133. Wliat is the reason annexed to the fifth command- 
menty the more to enforce it f 

A. The reason annexed to the fifth commandment in 
these words, " that thy days may be long upon the land which 
the Lord thy God giveth thee" p is an express promise of 
long life and prosperity, as far as it shall serve for God's 
glory and their own good, to all such as keep this com- 
mandment. 3 

h 1 Pet. ii. 17. Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. 

* Rom. xii. 10. In honor preferring one another. Phil. ii. 3.— In low- 
liness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 

i Rom. xii. 15, 16. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with 
them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Phil. ii. 
4. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the 
things of others. 

* Rom. xiii. 8. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another : for 
he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 

1 Prov. xiv. 21. He that despiseth his neighbor sinneth ; but he that 
hath mercy on the poor, happy is he. Isa. lxv. 5. Which say, Stand by 
thyself, come not near to me ; for I am holier than thou. 2 Tim. iii. 3. 

m Acts vii. 9. And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph 
into Egypt : but God was with him. Gal. v. 26. Let us not be desirous 
of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. 

n 1 John iii. 12. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew 
his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works 
were evil, and his brother's righteous. Matt. xx. 15.— Is thine eye evil, 
because I am good ? Num. xii. 2. Esth. vi. 12, 13. Luke xv. 28, 29. 

Matt. xx. 25, 26, 27. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye 
know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, 
and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not 
be so among you, etc. 3 John 9. Luke xxii. 24, 25, 26. 

p Ex. xx. 12. 

i Eph. vi. 2, 3. Honor thy father and mother; which is the first 
commandment with promise ; that it may be well with thee, and thou 
mayest live long on the earth. Deut. v. 16. 1 Kings viii. 25. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 205 

Q. 134. Wfiich is the sixth commandment f 

A. The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill? 

Q. 135. What are the duties required in the sixth com- 
mandment f 

A. The duties required in the sixth commandment are, 
all careful studies, and lawful endeavors, to preserve the 
life of ourselves s and others/ by resisting all thoughts and 
purposes," subduing all passions/ and avoiding all occa- 
sions, 1 " temptations/ and practices, which tend to the un- 
just taking away the life of any ; y by just defence thereof 
against violence ; * patient bearing of the hand of God, a 



r Ex. xx. 13. 

■ Eph. v. 29. No man ever yet hated his own flesh ; hut nourisheth 
and cherisheth it. Matt. x. 23. 

' Job xxix. 13. The blessing of him that was ready to perish came 
upon me. 1 Kings xviii. 4. 

« 1 Sam. xix. 4, 5. And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his 
father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, 
against Eavid ; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because 
his works have been to thee-ward very good :— wherefore then wilt 
thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause ? Jer. 
xxvi. 15, 16. Acts xxiii. 21, 27. 

v Eph. iv. 26. Be ye angry, and sin not ; let not the sun go down 
upon your wrath. 

w Prov. xxii. 24, 25. Make no friendship with an angry man ; and 
with a furious man thou shalt not go ; lest thou learn his ways and get 
a snare to thy soul. 1 Sam. xxv. 32, 33. 2 Sam. ii. 23. Deut. xxii. 8. 

■ Prov. i. 10, 11, 15. My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. 
If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily 
for the innocent without cause. — My son, walk not thou in the way 
with them ; refrain thy foot from their path. Matt. iv. 6, 7. 

y 1 Kings xxi. 9, 10, 19. And she [Jezebel] wrote in the letters, say- 
ing, Proclaim a fast and set Naboth on high among the people ; and 
set two men, sons of Belial, before him, to bear witness against him, 
saying, Thou didst blaspheme God and the king : and then carry him 
out, and stone him, that he may die.— Hast thou [Ahab] killed, and 
also taken possession ?— Thus saith the Lord, In the place where dogs 
licked the blood of Naboth, shall dogs lick thy blood, even thine. 
Gen. xxxvii. 21, 22. 1 Sam. xxiv. 12, and xxvi. 9, 10, 11. 

z Prov. xxiv. 11, 12. If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn 
unto death, and those that are ready to be slain ; if thou sayest, Be- 
hold, we knew it not ; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider 
it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth he not know it ? and shall not 
he render to every man according to his works? 1 Sam. xiv. 45. 

a Luke xxi. 19. In your patience possess ye yoar souls. James v. 8. 



206 THE LARGER CATECHISM, 

quietness of mind, 6 cheerfulness of spirit ; c a sober use of 
meat/ drink, 6 physic/ sleep/ labor/ and recreation / by- 
charitable thoughts/' love/ compassion/ meekness, gentle- 
ness, kindness ; m peaceable/ mild, and courteous speeches 
and behavior: forbearing, readiness to be reconciled, 
patient bearing and forgiving of injuries, and requiting 

Be ye also patient ; stablish your hearts : for the coming of the Lord 
draweth nigh. Heb. xii. 5.— My son, despise not thou the chastening 
of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him. 

b Psa. xxxvii. 8, 11. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath ; fret not 
thyself in any wise to do evil.— The meek shall inherit the earth ; and 
shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. 1 Pet. iii. 3, 4. 
Whose adorning— let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which 
is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, 
which is in the sight of God of great price. 

c Prov. xvii. 22. A merry heart doeth good like a medicine : but a 
broken spirit drieth the bones. 1 Thess. v. 16. Rejoice evermore. 

d Prov. xxiii. 20. Be not— among riotous eaters of flesh. Prov. xxv. 
16. 

« Prov. xxiii. 29, 30. Who hath woe ? who hath sorrow ? who hath 
contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? 
who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they 
that go to seek mixed wine. Eccl. x. 17. 1 Tim. v. 23. 

/Matt. ix. 12. But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They 
that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. Isa. 
xxxviii. 21. 

ff Eccl. ii. 23. All his days are sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, 
his heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity. Psa. 
cxxvii. 2. 

h Eccl. v. 12. The sleep of a laboring man is sweet, whether he eat 
little or much : but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to 
sleep. 2 Thess. iii. 10, 12. 

1 Eccl. iii. 4. A time to mourn, and a time to dance. 

*' 1 Cor. xiii. 4, 5. Charity— thinketh no evil. 1 Sam. xix. 4, 5. 

*Rom. xiii. 10. Love worketh no ill to his neighbor. Prov. x. 12. 
Hatred stirreth up strifes ; but love covereth all sins. 

1 Zech. vii. 9. Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying,— Show 
mercy and compassions every man to his brother. Luke x. 33, 34. 

»* Col. iii. 12. Put on, therefore, as the elect of God, holy and be- 
loved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, 
long-suffering. 

n Rom. xii. 18. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peace- 
ably with all men. 

1 Pet. iii. 8, 9. Be pitiful, be courteous ; not rendering evil for evil, 
or railing for railing ; but, contrariwise, blessing. 1 Cor. iv. 12, 13. — 
Being reviled, we bless ; being persecuted, we suffer it ; being defamed, 
we entreat. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 207 

good for evil;* comforting and succoring the distressed, 
and protecting and defending the innocent. 2 

Q. 136. What are the sins forbidden in the sixth com- 
mandment? 

A. The sins forbidden in the sixth commandment are, 
all taking away the life of ourselves, 7 * or of others,* except 
in case of public justice/ lawful war, w or necessary de- 
fence ; v the neglecting or withdrawing the lawful or 
necessary means of preservation of life ; w sinful a*n- 

p Col. iii. 13. Forbearing one another, and forgiving one anothei, if 
any man have a quarrel against any ; even as Christ forgave you, so 
also do ye. James iii. 17. — The wisdom that is from above is— gentle, 
and easy to be entreated. 1 Pet. ii. 20. — If, when ye do well, and suffer 
for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. Rom. xii. 20, 
21.— If thine enemy hunger, feed him ; if he thirst, give him drink : 
for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not over- 
come of evil, but overcome evil with good. Matt. v. 24. 

1 1 Thess. v. 14.— Comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak. Matt, 
xxv. 35, 36.— I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat : I was thirsty, 
and ye gave me drink : I was a stranger, and ye took me in : naked, 
and ye clothed me : I was sick, and ye visited me : I was in prison, 
and ye came unto me. Prov. xxxi. 8, 9. Open thy mouth for the 
dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.— Plead 
the cause of the poor and needy. Job xxxi. 19, 20. Isa. lviii. 7. 

r Acts xvi. 28. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself 
no harm ; for we are all here. Prov. i. 18. 

■ Gen. ix. 6. Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood 
be shed : for in the image of God made he man. 

* Ex. xxi. 14. If a man come presumptuously upon his neighbor, to 
slay him with guile ; thou shalt take him from mine altar, that he 
may die. Num. xxxv. 31, 33. 

u Deut. xx. throughout. When thou goest out to battle against thine 
enemies, and seest horses and chariots, and a people more than thou, 
be not afraid of them; for the Lord thy God is with thee, which 
brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, etc. Heb. xi. 32, 33, 34. — 
The time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Sam- 
son, and of Jephthae ; of David also, and Samuel, and of the proph- 
ets: who through faith subdued kingdoms,— out of weakness were 
made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the 
aliens. Jer. xlviii. 10. 

v Ex. xxii. 2. If a thief be found breaking up and be smitten that 
he die, there shall no blood be shed for him. 

w Matt. xxv. 42, 43. I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat : I 
was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink : I was a stranger, and ye took 
me not in : naked, and ye clothed me not : sick, and in prison, and ye 
visited me not. James ii. 15, 16. Eccl. vi. 1. 2. 



208 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

ger, x hatred^ envy/ desire of revenge ; a all excessive pas- 
sions, 6 distracting cares ; c immoderate use of meat, drink/ 
labor, 6 and recreations ; f provoking words ; 9 oppression, 7 * 
quarreling,* striking, wounding/ and whatsoever else 
tends to the destruction of the life of any.* 

Q. 137. Which is the seventh commandment f 

A. The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit 
adultery. 1 

Q. 138. What are the duties required in the seventh com- 
mandment ? 

A. The duties required in the seventh commandment 



* Matt. v. 22.— I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his 
brother without a cause, shall be in danger of the judgment. 

y 1 John iii. 15. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer. Prov. 
x. 12. Hatred stirreth up strifes. Lev. xix. 17. 

z Job v. 2. Envy slayeth the silly one. Prov. xiv. 30. A sound heart 
is the life of the flesh ; but envy the rottenness of the bones. 

« Rom. xii. 19. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather 
give place unto wrath. 

b James iv. 1. From whence come wars and fightings among you? 
come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members ? 
Eph. iv. 31. 

c Matt. vi. 34. Take therefore no thought for the morrow :— Sufficient 
unto the day is the evil thereof. Job xxi. 25. Another dieth in the 
bitterness of his soul, and never eateth with pleasure. 

d Luke xxi. 34. And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your 
hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness. 

e Eccl. iv. 8. There is one alone, and there is not a second ; yea, he 
hath neither child nor brother ; yet is there no end of all his labor : 
neither is his eye satisfied with riches ; neither saith he, For whom do 
I labor, and bereave my soul of good ? This is also vanity. Eccl. ii. 
22, and xii. 12. 

/Eccl. xi. 9. 

9 Prov. xv. 1. Grievous words stir up anger. Prov. xii. 18. 

h Isa. iii. 15. What mean ye that ye beat my people to pieces, and 
grind the faces of the poor? saith the Lord God of hosts. Ex. i. 14. 

* Gal. v. 15. But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that 
ye be not consumed one of another. 

i Num. xxxv. 16, 21. And if he smite him with an instrument of 
iron, so that he die, he is a murderer : the murderer shall surely be 
put to death, etc. 

* Prov. xxviii. 17. A man that doeth violence to the blood of any 
person shall flee to the pit; let no man stay him. Ex. xxi. 18, to the 
end. 

» Ex. xx. 14 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 209 

are, chastity in body, mind, affections," 1 words, 71 and be- 
havior; and the preservation of it in ourselves and 
others ; p watchfulness over the eyes and all the senses ; q 
temperance/ keeping of chaste company,* modesty in ap- 
parel ;' marriage by those that have not the gift of conti- 
nency, M conjugal love/ and cohabitation ;" diligent labor 
in our callings ; x shunning all occasions of uncleanness, 
and resisting temptations thereunto. 2 ' 

Q. 139. What are the sins forbidden in the seventh com- 
mandment f 

A. The sins forbidden in the seventh commandment, be- 



m 1 Thess. iv. 4, 5. Every one of you should know how to possess his 
vessel in sanctification and honor ; not in the lust of concupiscence. 
Job xxxi. 1. 

n Eph. iv. 29. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your 
mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying. Col. iv. 6. 

1 Pet. iii. 2. While they behold your chaste conversation coupled 
with fear. 

p 1 Cor. vii. 2. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have 
his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Tit. ii. 4, 
5. That they may teach the young women— to be discreet, chaste, 
keepers at home. 

9 Matt. v. 28. Whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her, hath 
committed adultery with her already in his heart. Job xxxi. 1. 

r Prov. xxiii. 31, 33. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red.— 
Thine eyes shall behold strange women. Jer. v. 7. — When I had fed 
them to the full, they then committed adultery and assembled them- 
selves by troops in the harlots' houses. 

« Prov. ii. 16, 20. To deliver thee from the strange woman, etc. 1 Cor. 
v. 9. I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators. 

* 1 Tim. ii. 9. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in 
modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety. 

u 1 Cor. vii. 9. But if they cannot contain, let them marry. 

v Prov. v. 18, 19. Rejoice with the wife of thy youth. Let her be as 
the loving hind and pleasant roe ; let her breasts satisfy thee at all 
times, and be thou ravished always with her love. 

w 1 Pet. iii. 7. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to 
knowledge. 1 Cor. vii. 5. Defraud ye not one the other, except it be 
with consent for a time, — and come together again, that Satan tempt 
you not for your incontinency. 

* 1 Tim. v. 13, 14. And withal they learn to be idle.— I will therefore 
that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house. 
Prov. xxxi. 27. 

y Prov. v. 8. Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the 
door of her house. 
14 



210 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

sides the neglect of the duties required,* are adultery, for- 
nication, a rape, incest, 6 sodomy, and all unnatural lusts; 4 
all unclean imaginations, thoughts, purposes, and affec- 
tions ; d all corrupt or filthy communications, or listening 
thereunto; 6 wanton looks, f impudent or light behavior, 
immodest apparel ; 9 prohibiting of lawful, 6 and dispensing 
with unlawful marriages ; * allowing, tolerating, keeping 
of stews, and resorting to them;- 7 ' entangling vows of sin- 



z Prov. v. 7. Hear me now, therefore, ye children, and depart not 
from the words of my mouth. Prov. iv. 23, 27. 

a Heb. xiii. 4. Whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Eph. 
v. 5. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person,— 
hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Gal. v. 19. 

6 2 Sam. xiii. 14. Howbeit he would not hearken unto her voice; 
but, being stronger than she, forced her, and lay with her. Mark vi. 
18.— John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy 
brothers wife. 1 Cor. v. 1, 13. 

e Rom. i. 20, 27. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affec- 
tions ; for even their women did change the natural use into that 
which is against nature : and likewise also the men, leaving the nat- 
ural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another. 
Lev. xx. 15, 16. If a man lie with a beast, he shall surely be put to 
death ; and ye shall slay the beast. And if a woman approach unto any 
beast, and lie down thereto, thou shalt kill the woman and the beast : 
they shall surely be put to death : their blood shall be upon them. 

d Matt. xv. 19. Out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, 
adulteries, fornications. Col. iii. 5. Mortify therefore your members 
which are upon the earth ; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affec- 
tion, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Matt, 
v. 28. 

e Eph. v. 3, 4. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, 
let it not be once named among you, asbecometh saints ; neither filthi- 
ness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient. Prov. 
vii. 5, 21. That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the 
stranger which nattereth with her words, etc. Prov. xix. 27. 

/Isa. iii. 16. The daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with 
stretched-forth necks, and wanton eyes. 2 Pet. ii. 14. Having eyes 
full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin. 

9 Prov. vii. 10, 13. And behold, there met him a woman with the at- 
tire of an harlot, and subtile of heart.— So she caught him, and kissed 
him, and with an impudent face said unto him. 

h 1 Tim. iv. 3. Forbidding to marry. 

i Lev. xviii. 1-21. 

J 2 Kings xxiii. 7. He [Josiah] brake down the houses of the Sodom- 
ites, that were by the house of the Lord.— Lev. xix. 29. Do not prosti- 
tute thv daughter, to cause her to be a whore ; lest the land fall to 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 211 

gle life,* undue delay of marriage ; l having more wives or 
husbands than one at the same time; m unjust divorce 71 or 
desertion ; ° idleness, gluttony, drunkenness, 3 ' unchaste 
company ; q lascivious songs, books, pictures, dancings, 
stage-plays ; r and all other provocations to, or acts of un- 
cleanness either in ourselves or others.* 
Q. 140. Wliich is the eighth commandment f 
A. The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal.* 
Q. 141. What are the duties required in the eighth com- 
mandment ? 

A. The duties required in the eighth commandment are, 
truth, faithfulness, and justice in contracts and commerce 

whoredom, and the land become full of wickedness. Jer. v. 7. How 
shall I pardon thee for this ? thy children have forsaken me,— when 
I had fed them to the full, they then committed adultery, and assem- 
bled themselves by troops in the harlots' houses. 

* Matt. xix. 10, 11. 

1 1 Tim. v. 14, 15. I will therefore that the younger women marry,— 
for some are already turned aside after Satan. Gen. xxxviii. 26. 

m Matt. xix. 5. For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, 
and shall cleave to his wife ; and they twain shall be one flesh. 1 Cor. 
vii. 2. 

n Matt. v. 32. But I say unto you that whosoever shall put away his 
wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adul- 
tery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced, committeth 
adultery. Mai. ii. 16. 

See letter («>), page 209. 1 Cor. vii. 12, 13. 

p Ezek. xvi. 49. Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, 
pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her.— See 
letter (i), page 210. 

? Eph. v. 11. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of 
darkness. Prov. v. 8. 

r Rom. xiii. 13. Let us walk honestly, as in the day ; not in rioting 
and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness. 1 Pet. iv. 3. 
For the time past of our lives may suffice us to have wrought the will 
of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of 
wine, revelings, banquetings. Ezek. xxiii. 14, 16.— When she saw men 
portrayed upon the wall,— she doted upon them. Isa. xxiii. 15, 16. 
Mark vi. 22. 

8 Rom. xiii. 14. Make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts 
thereof. 2 Pet. ii. 17, 18.— To whom the mist of darkness is reserved 
for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they 
allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those 
that were clean escaped from them who live in error. 

* Ex. xx. 15. 



212 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

between man and man ; u rendering to every one his due ; * 
restitution of goods unlawfully detained from the right 
owners thereof; w giving and lending freely, according to 
our abilities, and the necessities of others;* moderation 
of our judgments, wills, and affections, concerning worldly 
goods ; y a provident care and study to get, 2 keep, use, and 
dispose of those things which are necessary and convenient 
for the sustentation of our nature, and suitable to our con- 
dition ; a a lawful calling, 6 and diligence in it ; c frugality ; d 

u Psa. xv. 2, 4. He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteous- 
ness.— He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. Micah 
vi. 8.— What doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly ? Zech. 
viii. 16. 

v Rom. xiii. 7. Render— to all their dues ; tribute to whom tribute, etc. 

w Lev. vi. 4, 5. He shall restore that which he took violently away, 
or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was de- 
livered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found, or all that about 
which he hath sworn falsely, etc. Luke xix. 8. 

* Deut. xv. 7, 8, 10. Thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thy 
hand from thy poor brother; but thou shalt open thine hand wide 
unto him, and shalt surely lend him sufficient for his need, in that 
which he wanteth. — Thou shalt surely give him, and thine heart shall 
not be grieved, when thou givest unto him. Gal. vi. 10. Luke vi. 
30,38. 

v 1 Tim. vi. 8, 9. Having food and raiment, let us be therewith con- 
tent. But they that will be rich fall into temptation, and a snare, and 
into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction 
and perdition. 

z 1 Tim. v. 8. But if any provide not for his own, and specially for 
those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than 
an infidel. 

« Prov. xxvii. 23, 24. Be thou diligent to know the state of thy 
flocks, and look well to thy herds ; for riches are not for ever, etc. 
Eccl. iii. 12, 13. I know that there is no good in them, but for a man 
to rejoice, and to do good in his life.— It is the gift of God. 1 Tim. vi. 
17, 18. Charge them that are rich in this world,— that they do good, 
that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to com- 
municate. 

b Eph. iv. 28. Let him labor, working with his hands the thing 
which is good.— Eccl. ix. 10. Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do 
it with thy might. Rom. xii. 5 to $. 

c Prov. x. 4. The hand of the diligent maketh rich. Rom. xii. 11. 
Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord. 

d Prov. xii. 27, and xxi. 20. The substance of a diligent man is pre- 
cious.— There is treasure to be desired, and oil in the dwelling of the 
wise : but a foolish man spendeth it up. John vi. 12. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 213 

avoiding unnecessary law-suits, e and suretyship, or other 
like engagements ; f and an endeavor by all just and law- 
ful means to procure, preserve, and further the wealth and 
outward estate of others, as well as our own/ 

Q. 142. What are the sins forbidden in the eighth com- 
mandment f 

A. The sins forbidden in the eighth commandment, be- 
side the neglect of the duties required/ are, theft,* rob- 
bery, j man-stealing,* and receiving any thing that is 
stolen; 2 fraudulent dealing," 1 false weights and measures," 
removing land-marks, injustice and unfaithfulness in con- 
tracts between man and man^ or in matters of trust; q op- 

• 1 Cor. vi. 7. Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, be- 
cause ye go to law one with another. 

/Prov. xi. 15. He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it ; and 
he that hateth suretiship is sure. Prov. vi. 1 to 5. 

ff Lev. xxv. 35. And if thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen in de- 
cay with thee; then thou shalt relieve him; yea, though he be a 
stranger, or a sojourner. Phil. ii. 4. Look not every man on his own 
things, but every man also on the things of others. Deut. xxii. 1 to 4. 
Ex. xxiii. 4, 5. 

h Prov. xxiii. 21. Drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags. 1 John 
iii. 17. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have 
need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwell- 
eth the love of God in him? James ii. 15, 16. 

» Eph. iv. 28. Let him that stole, steal no more. 

i Psa. lxii. 10. Become not vain in robbery. 

* 1 Tim. i. 10. (The law is made) For whoremongers, for them that 
defile themselves with mankind, for men stealers. Ex. xxi. 16. Gen. 
i. 28. 

1 Prov. xxix. 24. Whoso is partner with a thief, hateth his own 
soul. Psa. 1. 18. When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst 
with him. 

m 1 Thess. iv. 6. That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in 
any matter ; because that the Lord is the avenger of all such. 

n Prov. xi. 1. A false balance is an abomination to the Lord. Prov. 
xx. 10. Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike 
abominations to the Lord. 

Deut. xix. 14. Thou shalt not remove thy neighbor's land-mark, 
which they of old time have set in thine inheritance. Prov. xxiii. 10. 

p Amos viii. 5. Making the ephah small and the shekel great, and 
falsifying the balances by deceit. Psa. xxxvii. 21. The wicked bor- 
roweth, and payeth not again. 

« Luke xvi. 11. If, therefore, ye have not been faithful in the un- 
righteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 



214 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

pression, r extortion/ usury/ bribery , M vexatious law-suits,* 
unjust enclosures and depredation ; w engrossing commod- 
ities to enhance the price, x unlawful callings/ and all 
other unjust or sinful ways of taking or withholding from 
our neighbor what belongs to him, or of enriching our- 
selves ;* covetousness ; ° inordinate prizing and affecting 
worldly goods; 6 distrustful and distracting cares and 
studies in getting, keeping, and using them ; c envying at 



r Ezek. xxii. 29. The people of the land have used oppression. Lev. 
xxv. 17. Ye shall not therefore oppress one another ; but thou shalt 
fear thy God. 

3 Matt, xxiii. 25. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites ! 
for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within 
they are full of extortion and excess. Ezek. xxii. 12.— Thou hast 
greedily gained of thy neighbors by extortion, and hast forgotten me, 
saith the Lord God. 

* Psa. xv. 5. He that putteth not out his money to usury. 

u Job xv. 34. Fire shall consume the tabernacles of bribery. Isa. 
xxxiii. 15. 

v Prov. iii. 30. Strive not with a man without cause, if he hath done 
thee no harm. 1 Cor. vi. 7. 

w Isa. v. 8. Woe unto them that join house to house, that lay field to 
field, till there be no place, that they may be placed alone in the midst 
of the earth ! Micah ii. 2.— They covet fields, and take them by vio- 
lence ; and houses, and take them away. 

x Prov. xi. 26. He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse 
him ; but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it. 

v Acts xix. 19, 24, 25. Many of them also which used curious arts, 
brought their books together, and burned them before all men, etc. 

* James v. 4. Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped 
down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth : and 
the cries of them which have reaped, are entered into the ears of the 
Lord of sabaoth. Prov. xxi. 6. The getting of treasures by a lying 
tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death. Job 
xx. 19. 

a Luke xii. 15. Take heed and beware of covetousness. Prov. 
i. 19. 

6 1 John ii. 15, 16. Love not the world, neither the things that are in 
the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not 
in him, etc. Prov. xxiii. 5. Psa. lxii. 10. 

Matt. vi. 25, 34. Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, 
or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on — 
Take therefore no thought for the morrow ; for the morrow shall take 
thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil 
thereof. Eccl. v. 12.— The abundance of the rich will not suffer him 
to sleep. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 215 

the prosperity of others : d as likewise idleness/ prodigal- 
ity, wasteful gaming; and all other ways whereby we do 
unduly prejudice our own outward estate:-'' and defraud- 
ing ourselves of the due use and comfort of that estate 
which God hath given us/ 

Q. 143. Which is the ninth commandment f 

A. The ninth commandment is, Thou shalt not bear false 
witness against thy neighbor. 71 

Q. 144. What are the duties required in the ninth com- 
mandment ? 

A. The duties required in the ninth commandment are, 
the preserving and promoting of truth between man and 
man, 1 ' and the good name of our neighbor, as well as our 
own:-? appearing and standing for the truth;* and from 
the heart/ sincerely," 1 freely, 71 clearly, and fully, p speaking 

d Psa. lxxiii. 3. I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the pros- 
perity of the wicked. James v. 9. Grudge not one against another, 
brethren, lest ye be condemned. 

e 2 Thess. iii. 11. We hear that there are some which walk among 
you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies — Prov. xviii. 9. 

/ Prov. xxi. 17. He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man ; he 
that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. Prov. xxiii. 20, 21. Be not 
among wine-bibbers ; among riotous eaters of flesh : for the drunkard 
and the glutton shall come to poverty. Prov. xxviii. 19. 

ff Eccl. iv. 8. There is one alone and there is not a second ; yea, he 
hath neither child nor brother : yet is there no end of all his labor ; 
neither is his eye satisfied with riches ; neither saith he, For whom do 
I labor, and bereave my soul of good ? Eccl. vi. 2. 

* Ex. xx. 16. 

■ Eph. iv. 25. Putting away lying, speak every man truth with his 
neighbor : for we are members one of another. 

j 3 John 12. Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth 
itself: yea, and we also bear record ; and ye know that our record is true. 

* Prov. xxxi. 9. Open thy mouth, judge righteously, etc. 
1 Psa. xv. 2. He that— speaketh the truth in his heart. 

m 2 Chron. xix. 9. And he charged them, saying, Thus shall ye do in 
the fear of the Lord, faithfully, and with a perfect heart. 

n Jer. ix. 3. They are not valiant for the truth upon the earth. 
1 Sam. xix. 4, 5. 

Jer. xlii. 4. Whatsoever thing the Lord shall answer you, I will 
declare it unto you ; I will keep nothing back from you. Josh. vii. 19. 
Acts xx. 20. 

v Acts xx. 27. I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel 
of God. 2 Sam. xiv. 18, 19, 20. 



216 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

the truth, and only the truth, in matters of judgment and 
justice, 5 and in all other things whatsoever : r a charitable 
esteem of our neighbors ; s loving, desiring, and rejoicing 
in their good name ; ' sorrowing for, M and covering of their 
infirmities ; v freely acknowledging of their gifts and 
graces,"' defending their innocency ; x a ready receiving of 
a good report/ and unwillingness to admit of an evil re 
port concerning them ; z discouraging tale-bearers, flatter- 
ers, 6 and slanderers ; c love and care of our own good name, 
and defending it when need requireth ; d keeping of law- 

9 Lev. xix. 15. Thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor 
honor the person of the mighty : but in righteousness shalt thou judge 
thy neighbor. Prov. xiv. 5. A faithful witness will not lie ; but a false 
witness will utter lies. 

r Isa. lxiii. 8. Surely they are my people, children that will not lie. 
Col. iii. 9. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old 
man with his deeds. 2 Cor. i. 17. 

8 Heb. vi. 9. But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, 
and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. 1 Cor. 
xiii. 4, 5.— Charity— thinketh no evil. 

* 3 John 4. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk 
in truth. Rom. i. 8. 

u 2 Cor. xii. 21. And lest, when I come again, my God will humble 
me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned al- 
ready, and have not repented of the uncleanness, and fornication, and 
lasciviousness, which they have committed. Psa. cxix. 158. 

v Prov. xvii. 9. He that covereth a transgression seeketh love. 
1 Pet. iv. 8. 

w 1 Cor. i. 4, 5. I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace 
of God which is given you by Jesus Christ ; that in every thing ye are 
enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge. 2 Tim. i. 
4,5. 

x Psa. lxxxii. 3. Defend the poor and fatherless : do justice to the 
afflicted and needy. 1 Sam. xxii. 14. 

v 1 Cor. xiii. 4, 6, 7. Charity— rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth 
in the truth— believeth all things, hopeth all things. 

z Psa. xv. 3. Nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. 

« Prov. xxv. 23. The north wind driveth away rain : so doth an an- 
gry countenance a backbiting tongue. 

b Prov. xxvi. 24, 25. He that hateth, dissembleth with his lips, and 
layeth up deceit within him : when he speaketh fair, believe him not : 
for there are seven abominations in his heart. 

c Psa. ci. 5. Whoso privily slandereth his neighbor, him will I cut off. 

d 2 Cor. xi. 18, 23. Seeing that many glory after the flesh. I will glory 
also. — Are they ministers of Christ ?— I am more ; in labors more abun- 
dant, in stripes above measure, etc. Prov. xxii. 1. Acts xxiv. 12, 13. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 217 

fill promises; 6 studying and practicing of whatsoever 
things are true, honest, lovely, and of good report/ 

Q. 145. What are the sins forbidden in the ninth com- 
mandment f 

A. The sins forbidden in the ninth commandment are, 
all prejudicing of the truth, and the good name of our 
neighbors as well as our own/ especially in public judica- 
ture ; h giving false evidence/ suborning false witnesses/' 
wittingly appearing and pleading for an evil cause, out- 
facing and overbearing the truth ; * passing unjust sen- 
tence/ calling evil good, and good evil ; rewarding the 
wicked according to the work of the righteous, and the 
righteous according to the work of the wicked ; m forgery , n 
concealing the truth, undue silence in a just cause, and 
holding our peace when iniquity calleth for either a re- 
's Psa. xv. 4. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. 

/ Phil. iv. 8. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatso- 
ever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things 
are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good 
report ; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on 
these things. 

9 Luke iii. 14. And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, nei- 
ther accuse any falsely. 2 Sam. xvi. 3. 2 Sam. i. 9-16. 

h Lev. xix. 15. Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment. Hab. i. 4. 

» Prov. xix. 5. A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that 
speaketh lies shall not escape. Prov. vi. 16, 19. 

3 Acts vi. 13. And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth 
not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law. 

* Jer. ix. 3. And they bend their tongues like their bow for lies ; but 
they are not valiant for the truth upon the earth. Psa. xii. 3, 4. The 
Lord shall cut off— the tongue that speaketh proud things ; who have 
said, With our tongue will we prevail, our lips are our own ; who is 
lord over us. Psa. Iii. 1, 2, 3, 4. Acts xxiv. 2, 5. 

1 Prov. xvii. 15. He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemn- 
eth the just, even they both are abomination to the Lord. 1 Kings 
xxi. 9-14. 

m Isa. v. 23. [Woe unto them] which justify the wicked for reward, 
and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him. 

n 1 Kings xxi. 8. 

Lev. v. 1. And if a soul sin, and hear the voice of swearing, and 
is a witness, whether he hath seen or known of it; if he do not utter 
it, then he shall bear his iniquity. Acts v. 3. — Peter said, Ananias, why 
hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back 
part of the price of the land ? 



218 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

proof from ourselves/ or complaint to others ; 9 speaking 
the truth unseasonably/ or maliciously to a wrong end,* 
or perverting it to a wrong meaning/ or in doubtful and 
equivocal expression, to the prejudice of truth or justice;" 
speaking untruth/ lying, 1 * slandering/ backbiting/ de- 
tracting/ tale-bearing/ whispering/ scoffing/ reviling/ 
rash/ harsh/ and partial censuring ; g misconstructing in- 



p Lev. xix. 17. Thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not 
suffer sin upon him. Isa. lviii. 1. Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy 
voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the 
house of Jacob their sins. 1 Kings i. 6. 

1 1sa. lix. 4. None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth. 

r Prov. xxix. 11. A fool uttereth all his mind : but a wise man keep- 
eth it in till afterwards. 

■ 1 Sam. xxii. 9, 10. Then answered Doeg the Edomite, which was set 
over the servants of Saul, and said, I saw the son of Jesse coming to 
Nob, to Ahimelech the son of Ahitub. And he inquired of the Lord for 
him, and gave him— the sword of Goliath the Philistine. Psa. lii. 1. 

* Psa. lvi. 5. Every day they wrest my words. Matt. xxvi. 60, 61.— 
At the last came two false witnesses, and said, This fellow said, I am 
able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days. (Com- 
pare John ii. 19.) 

u Gen. iii. 5. God doth know, that in the day ye eat thereof, then 
your eyes shall be opened ; and ye shall be as gods, etc. Gen. xxvi. 7, 9. 

v Isa. lix. 13. Conceiving and uttering from the heart words of false- 
hood. 

w Col. iii. 9. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the 
old man with his deeds. Lev. xix. 11. 

x Psa. 1. 20. Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother : thou 
slanderest thine own mother's son. 

y Psa. xv. 3. He that backbiteth not with his tongue. Rom. i. 30. 
Backbiters, haters of God. 

* James iv. 11. Speak not evil one of another, brethren. Tit. iii. 2. 
To speak evil of no man. Jer. xxxviii. 4. 

« Lev. xix. 16. Thou shalt not go up and down as a tale-bearer 
among thy people. 

b Rom. i. 29. Full of— deceit, malignity ; whisperers. Prov. xvi. 28. 

c Isa. xxviii. 22. Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands 
be made strong. Gen. xxi. 9. Gal. iv. 29. 

d 1 Cor. vi. 10. Nor drunkards, nor revilers,— shall inherit the king- 
dom of God. 

« Matt. vii. 1. Judge not, that ye be not judged. 

/James ii. 13. He shall have judgment without mercy, that hath 
showed no mercy. Acts xxviii. 4. 

9 John vii. 24. Judge not according to the appearance, but judge 
righteous judgment.— Rom. ii. 1. Gen. xxxviii. 24. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 219 

tentions, words, and actions ; h flattering, 4 vain glorious 
boasting/* thinking or speaking too highly or too meanly 
of ourselves or others ; * denying the gifts and graces of 
God ; * aggravating smaller faults ; m hiding, excusing, or 
extenuating of sins, when called to a free confession ; n 
unnecessarily discovering of infirmities; raising false 
rumors,* receiving and countenancing evil reports, 9 
and stopping our ears against just defence ; r evil suspi- 

h Rom. iii. 8. And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and 
as some affirm that we say) Let us do evil, that good may come ? whose 
damnation is just. Psa. lxix. 10. When I wept and chastened my soul 
with fastiug, that was to my reproach. 1 Sam. i. 13, 14, 15. 2 Sam. x. 
3. Neh. vi. 6, 7, 8. 

* Psa. xii. 2, 3. With nattering lips, and with a double heart do they 
speak. The Lord shall cut off all nattering lips. 

i 2 Tim. iii. 2. For men shall be lovers of their own selves,— boast- 
ers. 

* Luke xviii. 11. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 
God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, un- 
just, adulterers, or even as this publican. Gal. v. 26. Let us not be 
desirous of vain-glory, provoking one another, envying one another. 
Ex. iv. 10, 14. And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not 
eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy ser- 
vant ; but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. — And the anger 
of the Lord was kindled against Moses. Acts xii. 22. 

1 Job xxvii. 5, 6. God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I 
will not remove mine integrity from me. My righteousness I hold fast, 
and will not let it go : my heart shall not reproach me so long as I 
live. 

m Isa. xxix. 20, 21. All that watch for iniquity are cut off; that make 
a man an offender for a word. Matt. vii. 3. 

n Gen. iii. 12, 13. And the man said, The woman, whom thou gavest 
to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.— And the wom- 
an said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. Prov. xxviii. 13. He 
that covereth his sins shall not prosper. 2 Kings v. 25. Gen. iv. 9. 

Prov. xxv. 9. Debate thy cause with thy neighbor himself; and 
discover not a secret to another. Gen. ix. 22. 

p Ex. xxiii. 1. Thou shalt not raise a false report. 

9 Jer. xx. 10. I heard the defaming of many, — Report, say they, and 
we will report it. All my familiars watched for my halting, saying, 
Peradventure he will be enticed, and we shall prevail against him, 
and we shall take our revenge on him. Prov. xxix. 12. 

r Acts vii. 57. Then they cried out with a loud voice , and stopped 
their ears. Job xxxi. 13, 14. If I did despise the cause of my man- 
servant, or of my maid-servant, when they contended with me ; what 
then shall I do when God riseth up? and when he visiteth, what shall 
I answer him ? 



220 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

cion ; * envying or grieving at the deserved credit of any/ 
endeavoring or desiring to impair it," rejoicing in their dis- 
grace and infamy ; v scornful contempt, 10 fond admiration ; x 
breach of lawful promises ; y neglecting such things as are 
of good report ; z and practicing or not avoiding ourselves, 
or not hindering what we can in others, such things as 
procure an ill name. 

Q. 146. Which is the tenth commandment f 

A. The tenth commandment is, Thou shalt not covet thy 
neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor 
his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, 
nor any thing that is thy neighbor's} 

Q. 147. What are the duties required in the tenth com- 
mandment ? 

A. The duties required in the tenth commandment are, 



• 1 Cor. xiii. 4, 5. Charity— thinketh no evil. 1 Tim. vi. 4. 

< Matt. xxi. 15. And when the chief priests and scribes saw the won- 
derful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and 
saying, Hosanna to the son of David, they were sore displeased. Num. 
xi. 29. 

u Dan. vi. 3, 4. Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents 
and princes.— Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion 
against Daniel concerning the kingdom. Ezra iv. 12, 13. 

v Jer. xlviii. 27. For was not Israel a derision unto thee? was he 
found among thieves ? for since thou spakest of him, thou skippedst 
for joy. 

w Matt, xxvii. 28, 29. And they stripped him, and put on him a scar- 
let robe. And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it 
upon his head, and a reed in his right hand ; and they bowed the knee 
before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews! Psa. 
xxxv. 15, 16. 

x 1 Cor. iii. 21. Let no man glory in men.— Jude 16. Having men's 
persons in admiration because of advantage. — Acts xii. 22. 

y Rom. i. 31. Without understanding, covenant-breakers. 2 Tim. 
iii. 3. 

2 2 Sam. xii. 14. Thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of 
the Lord to blaspheme. 1 Sam. ii. 24. 

n Phil. iii. 18, 19. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, 
and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross 
of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and 
whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things. 2 Pet. ii. 2. 
And many shall follow their pernicious ways ; by reason of whom the 
way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 2 Sam. xii. 13. 

b Ex. xx. 17. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 221 

such a full contentment with our own condition, and such 
a charitable frame of the whole soul towards our neigh- 
bor, as that all our inward motions and affections touch- 
ing him, tend unto and further all that good which is 
his.* 

Q. 148. What are the sins forbidden in the tenth command- 
ment t 

A. The sins forbidden in the tenth commandment 
are, discontentment with our own estate; 6 envying/ 
and grieving at the good of our neighbor/ together 
with all inordinate motions and affections to any thing 
that is his/ 

Q. 149. Is any man able perfectly to keep the command- 
ments of God? 

A. No man is able, either of himself,* or by any grace 
received in this life, perfectly to keep the commandments 



c Heb. xiii. 5. Let your conversation be without covetousness ; and 
be content with such things as ye have : for he hath said, I will never 
leave thee. 1 Tim. vi. 6. 

d Rom. xii. 15. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with 
them that weep. Phil. ii. 4. Look not every man on his own things, 
but every man also on the things of others. Job xxxi. 29. 1 Tim. 
i. 5. 

e 1 Cor. x. 10. Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, 
and were destroyed of the destroyer. 1 Kings xxi. 4. 

/ Gal. v. 26. Let us not be desirous of vain-glory, provoking one an- 
other, envying one another. James iii. 14, 16. But if ye have bitter 
envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the 
truth. — For w T here envying and strife is, there is confusion, and every 
evil work. 

9 Psa. cxii. 9, 10. His horn shall be exalted with honor. The wicked 
shall see it, and be grieved. Neh. ii. 10. 

* Rom. vii. 7. I had not known sin, but by the law : for I had not 
known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. Deut. v. 
21. Neither shalt thou desire thy neighbor's wife, neither shalt thou 
covet thy neighbor's house, his field, or his man-servant, or his maid- 
servant, his ox, or his ass, or any thing that is thy neighbor's. Col. iii. 
5. Mortify— inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetous- 
ness, which is idolatry. Rom. xiii. 9. 

» James iii. 2. In many things we offend all. Job xv. 14. What is 
man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, 
that he should be righteous? John xv. 5.— Without me ye can do 
nothing. 



222 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

of God;-*' but doth daily break them in though t, k word, 
and deed/ 

Q. 150. Are all transgressions of the law of God equally 
heinous in themselves, and in the sight of God f 

A. All transgressions of the law of God are not equally- 
heinous; but some sins in themselves, and by reason of 
several aggravations, are more heinous in the sight of God 
than others." 1 

Q. 151. What are those aggravations that make some sins 
more heinous than others t 

A. Sins receive their aggravations, 

1. From the persons offending : n If they be of riper age, 
greater experience, or grace ; p eminent for profession, 3 gifts/ 

3 Eccl. vii. 20. There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good 
and sinneth not. 1 Kings viii. 46. For there is no man that sinneth 
not. 1 John i. 8. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, 
and the truth is not in us. 

* Gen. viii. 21. The imagination of man's heart is evil from his 
youth. James i. 14.— Every man is tempted, when he is drawn away 
of his own lust, and enticed. Gen. vi. 5. See letter (f), above. 

1 Psa. xix. 12. Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from 
secret faults. Rom. iii. 9, 19.— We have before proved both Jews and 
Gentiles, that they are all under sin. — Every mouth may be stopped, 
and all the world may become guilty before God. James iii. 2, 8. In 
many things we offend all.— The tongue can no man tame ; it is an un- 
ruly evil, full of deadly poison. 

m Heb. ii. 2, 3. If the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and 
every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of 
reward : how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation ; which 
at the first began to be spoken by the Lord ? Ezra ix. 14. Psa. lxxviii. 
17, 32, 56. 

n Jer. ii. 8. The priests said not, Where is the Lord ? and they that 
handle the law knew me not : the pastors also transgressed against 
me, and the prophets prophesied by Baal. 

Job xxxii. 9. Great men are not always wise : neither do the aged 
understand judgment. Eccl. iv. 13. 

p 1 Kings xi. 9. And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his 
heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared 
unto him twice. 

? 2 Sam. xii. 14. By this deed thou hast given great occasion to the 
enemies of the Lord to blaspheme. 1 Cor. v. 1. 

r James iv. 17. To him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to 
him it is sin. Luke xii. 47.— That servant which knew his Lord's will, 
and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be 
beaten with many stripes. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 223 

place,* office/ guides to others," and whose example is likely 
to be followed by others/ 

2. From the parties offended : w If immediately against 
God, x his attributes/ and worship ; * against Christ, and his 
grace ; a the Holy Spirit, 5 his witness, and workings ; d 



* John iii. 10. Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master 
of Israel, and knowest not these things ? Jer. v. 4, 5. 

* 2 Sam. xii. 7, 8, 9. And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. 
Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, 
— and I gave thee thy master's house : — wherefore hast thou despised the 
commandment of the Lord, to do evil in his sight? Ezek. viii. 11, 12. 

u Rom. ii. 21, 22, 24. Thou therefore that teachest another, teachest 
thou not thyself? Thou that preachest, a man should not steal, dost 
thou steal ? Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost 
thou commit adultery ? — For the name of God is blasphemed among 
the Gentiles, through you. 

» Gal. ii. 14. But when I saw that they walked not uprightly accord- 
ing to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If 
thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do 
the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews ? 
2 Pet. ii. 1, 2. 

w 1 John v. 10. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the wit- 
ness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar ; be- 
cause he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. Matt. xxi. 
38, 39. 

* 1 Sam. ii. 25. If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge 
him ; but if a man sin against the Lord, who shall entreat for him ? 
Acts v. 4. Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. 

y Rom. ii. 4. Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness, and for- 
bearance, and long-suffering ; not knowing that the goodness of God 
leadeth thee to repentance ? 

z Mai. i. 14. Cursed be the deceiver, which hath in his flock a male, 
and voweth, and sacrificeth unto the Lord a corrupt thing. 1 Cor. x. 
21, 22.— Ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of 
devils. Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy ? are we stronger than he ? 

a John iii. 18, 36. He that believeth not is condemned already, be- 
cause he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of 
God.— He that believeth not the Son shall not see life ; but the wrath 
of God abideth on him. Heb. xii. 25. 

6 Heb. x. 29. Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he 
be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God,— 
and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? Matt. xii. 31, 32. 

c Eph. iv. 30. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye 
are sealed unto the day of redemption. 

d Heb. vi. 4, 5, 6. For it is impossible for those who were once en- 
lightened—and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost ;— if they shall 
fall away, to renew them again unto repentance. 



224 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

against superiors, men of eminency,* and such as we stand 
especially related and engaged unto;-'' against any of the 
saints/ particularly weak brethren/ the souls of them or 
any other/ and the common good of all or many.- 7 ' 

3. From the nature and quality of the offence : k if it be 
against the express letter of the law/ break many com- 
mandments, contain in it many sins : m if not only con- 
ceived in the heart, but break forth in words and actions,' 4 
scandalize others, and admit of no reparation : p if against 

« Num. xii. 8. Wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against 
my servant Moses?— Jude 8. Isa. iii. 5. 

/ Prov. xxx. 17. The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth 
to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the 
young eagles shall eat it. Psa. xli. 9. Yea, mine own familiar friend, 
in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel 
against me. Psa. lv. 12 to 14. 

a Zech. ii. 8. He that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye. 

h 1 Cor. viii. 11, 12. And through thy knowledge shall the weak 
brother perish, for whom Christ died? But when ye sin so against 
the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. 
Rom. xiv. 13, 15, 21. 

* Ezek. xiii. 19. And will ye pollute me among my people for hand- 
fuls of barley, and for pieces of bread, to slay the souls that should 
not die? 

3 1 Thcss. ii. 15, 16. Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own 
prophets, and have persecuted us— to fill up their sins alway : for the 
wrath is come upon them to the utmost. Matt, xxiii. 34-38. 

* Isa. iii. 9. They declare their sin as Sodom, they hide it not. Prov. 
vi. 30 to 33. 

1 Ezek. xx. 12, 13. I gave them my sabbaths, to be a sign between me 
and them — and my sabbaths they greatly polluted. 

m Col. iii. 5. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the 
earth : fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupis- 
cence, and covetousness, which is idolatry. 1 Tim. vi. 10. 

n Mic. ii. 1, 2. Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon 
their beds ! when the morning is light, they practice it because it is in 
the power of their hand. And they covet fields, and take them by 
violence. 

Rom. ii. 23, 24. Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through 
breaking the law dishonorest thou God? For the name of God is 
blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written. Matt. 
xviii. 7. 

p Prov. vi. 32, 33, 34, 35. But whoso committeth adultery with a 
woman— a wound and dishonor shall he get ; and his reproach shall 
not be wiped away. For jealousy is the rage of a man ; therefore he 
will not spare in the day of vengeance. He will not regard any ran- 



THE LARGER CATECHISM, 225 

means, 9 mercies/ judgments,* light of nature/ conviction 
of conscience," public or private admonition/ censures of 
the church,™ civil punishments ; x and our prayers, purposes, 
promises/ vows/ covenants/ and engagements to God or 



som. Mat. xvi. 26. What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole 
world and lose his own soul ? or what shall a man give in exchange 
for his soul? 

i Matt. xi. 21, 22, 23, 24. Woe unto thee, Chorazin ! woe unto thee, 
Bethsaida ! For if the mighty works which were done in you had 
been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in 
sackcloth and ashes. But I say unto you, it shall be more tolerable for 
Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you. And thou, Ca- 
pernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt b^ brought down to 
hell : for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been 
done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day, etc. John xv. 22. 

r Deut. xxxii. 6. Do ye thus requite the Lord, O foolish people and 
unwise ? Is not he thy father, that hath bought thee ? hath he not 
made thee, and established thee ? Isa. i. 2, 3. Ezra ix. 13, 14. 

8 Jer. v. 3. O Lord, are not thine eyes upon the truth ? thou hast 
stricken them, but they have not grieved ; thou hast consumed them, 
but they have refused to receive correction: they have made their 
faces harder than a rock : they have refused to return. Amos iv. 
8-11. 

* Rom. i. 20, 21. For the invisible things of him from the creation 
of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are 
made, even his eternal power and Godhead ; so that they are without 
excuse, etc. 

u Rom. i. 32. Who, knowing the judgment of God, that they which 
commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but 
have pleasure in them that do them. Dan. v. 22. 

v Prov. xxix. 1. He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, 
shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy. 

w Matt, xviii. 17. If he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto 
thee as an heathen man and a publican. Tit. iii. 10. 

* Prov. xxvii. 22. Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar 
among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from 
him. 

y Psa. lxxviii. 34, 36, 37. When he slew them, then they sought him ; 
and they returned, and inquired early after God. — Nevertheless they 
did flatter him with their mouth, and they lied unto him with their 
tongues. For their heart was not right with him, neither were they 
steadfast in his covenant. Jer. xlii. 5, 6, 20, 21, 22. 

2 Eccl. v. 5. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou 
shouldest vow and not pay. Prov. xx. 25. It is a snare to the man 
who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows, to make inquiry. 

a Lev. xxvi. 25. And I will bring a sword upon you, that shall 
avenge the quarrel of my covenant. Jer. xxxi. 82. 
15 



226 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

men : 6 if done deliberately, willfully/ presumptuously, 6 im- 

pudently/boastingly/ maliciously, 71 frequently /obstinately/ 

with delight/ continuance/ or relapsing after repentance." 1 

4. From circumstances of time, 71 and place : • if on the 



h Prov. ii. 17. Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forget- 
teth the covenant of her God. Ezek. xvii. 18. Seeing he despised the 
oath by breaking the covenant, when, lo, he had given his hand, and 
hath done all these things, he shall not escape. 

c Psa. xxxvi. 4. He deviseth mischief upon his bed ; he setteth him- 
self in a way that is not good ; he abhorreth not evil. 

d Jer. vi. 16. Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and 
ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye 
shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein. 

e Num. xv. 30. But the soul that doeth aught presumptuously, w T hether 
he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth the Lord ; 
and that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Ex. xxi. 14. 

/Jer. vi. 15. W T ere they ashamed when they had committed abomi- 
nation ? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush ; 
therefore they shall fall among them that fall. Prov. vii. 13. 

9 Psa. lii. 1. Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? 

h Ezek. xxxv. 5, 6. Because thou hast had a perpetual hatred, and 
hast shed the blood of the children of Israel by the force of the sword 
in the time of their calamity, in the time that their iniquity had an 
end : therefore, as I live, saith the Lord God, I will prepare thee unto 
blood. 3 John 10. 

* Num. xiv. 22. Have tempted me now these ten times, and have not 
hearkened to my voice. 

i Zech. vii. 11, 12. But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the 
shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear. Yea, 
they made their hearts as an adamant stone. 

* Prov. ii. 14. Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the frowardness 
of the wicked. 

1 Jer. ix. 3, 5. They proceed from evil to evil, and they know not me, 
saith the Lord.— And weary themselves to commit iniquity. Isa. lvii. 17. 

m 2 Pet. ii. 20, 21. For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of 
the world, through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus 
Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end 
is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for 
them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they 
have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto 
them. Heb. vi. 4, 6. 

n Isa. xxii. 12, 13, 14. And in that day did the Lord God of hosts call 
to weeping, and to mourning, and to baldness, and to girding with 
sackcloth; and behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing 
sheep, eating flesh and drinking w T ine.— Surely this iniquity shall not be 
purged from you, till ye die, saith the Lord God of hosts. 2 Kings v. 26. 

Jer. vii. 10, 11. And come and stand before me in this house, which 
is called by my name, and say. We are delivered to do all these abomi- 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 227 

Lord's day, p or other times of divine worship ; q or imme- 
diately before/' or after these, 5 or other helps to prevent or 
remedy such miscarriages : * if in public, or in the presence of 
others, who are thereby likely to be provoked or defiled.™ 
Q. 152. What doth every sin deserve at the hands of God f 
A. Every sin, even the least, being against the sover- 
eignty/ goodness,* 7 and holiness of God, x and against his 
righteous law/ deserveth his wrath and curse, 2 both in this 

nations? Is this house, which is called by my name, become a den of 
robbers in your eyes ? 

p Ezek.xxiii. 38. They have denied my sanctuary in the same day, 
and have profaned my sabbaths. 

« Isa. lviii. 3, 4. Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and 
exact all your labors. Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to 
smite with the fist of wickedness. 

r 1 Cor. xi. 20, 21. When ye come together therefore in one place, 
this is not to eat the Lord's supper. For in eating every one taketh 
before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is 
drunken. Jer. vii. 9, 10. Will ye steal, murder— and come and stand 
before me in this house ? 

8 Prov. vii. 14, 15. I have peace-offerings with me ; this day have I 
paid my vows : therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek 
thy face ; and I have found thee. 

* Neh. ix. 13, 14, 15, 16. Thou earnest down also upon mount Sinai — 
and madest known unto them thy holy sabbath— and gavest them 
bread from heaven for their hunger, and broughtest forth water for 
them out of the rock for their thirst— but they and our fathers dealt 
proudly, and hardened their necks, and hearkened not to my com- 
mandments. 2 Chron. xxxvi. 15, 16. 

tt Isa. iii. 9. They declare their sin as Sodom, they hide it not. Woe 
unto their soul ! for they have rewarded evil unto themselves. 1 Sam. 
ii. 22, 23, 24. 

v James ii. 10, 11. Whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet 
offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not com- 
mit adultery, said also, Do not kill. 

w Deut. xxxii. 6. Do ye thus requite the Lord, O foolish people and 
unwise? Is not he thy father that hath bought thee? hath he not 
made thee and established thee? 

* Hab. i. 13. Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst 
not look on iniquity : wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal 
treacherously? 1 Pet. i. 15, 16.— As he which hath called you is holy, 
so be ye holy in all manner of conversation : because it is written, Be 
ye holy, for I am holy. Lev. xi. 45. 

y 1 John iii. 4. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the 
law : for sin is the transgression of the law. Rom. vii. 12.— The law is 
holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. 

* Gal. iii. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under 



228 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

life, a and that which is to come; 6 and cannot be expiated 
but by the blood of Christ. 

Q. 153. Wliat doth God require of us, that we may escape 
his wrath and curse due to us by reason of the transgression 
of the law f 

A. That we may escape the wrath and curse of God due 
to us by reason of the transgression of the law, he requir- 
eth of us repentance towards God, and faith towards our 
Lord Jesus Christ/ and the diligent use of the outward 
means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of 
his mediation. 6 

Q. 154. What are the outward means whereby Christ com- 
municates to us the benefits of his mediation ? 

A. The outward and ordinary means, whereby Christ 
communicates to his church the benefits of his mediation, 
are all his ordinances ; especially the word, sacraments, 
and prayer ; all which are made effectual to the elect for 
their salvation/ 

the curse : for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all 
things which are written in the book of the law to do them. Eph. v. 6. 

a Deut. xxviii. 15, to the end. But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt 
not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all 
his commandments and his statutes, which I command thee this day ; 
that all these curses shall come upon thee, etc. Prov. xiii. 21. 

b Matt. xxv. 41. Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, 
prepared for the devil and his angels.— Rom. vi. 21, 23.— The end of 
those things is death.— The wages of. sin is death. 

• Heb. ix. 22. And almost all things are by the law purged with 
blood ; and without shedding of blood is no remission. 1 John i. 7.— 
And the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. 1 Pet. 
i. 18, 19. 

d Acts xx. 21. Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, 
repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. Mark 
i. 15.— Repent ye, and believe the gospel. John iii. 18. He that be- 
lieveth on him, is not condemned ; but he that believeth not, is con- 
demned already, because he hath not believed on the name of the 
only begotten Son of God. 

e Prov. viii. 33, 34. 35. Hear instruction, and be wise and refuse it 
not. Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, 
waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me, findeth life, 
and shall obtain favor of the Lord. Luke xiii. 24. Strive to enter in 
at the strait gate : for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and 
shall not be able. 

/Matt, xxviii. 19, 20. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, bap- 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 229 

Q. 155. How is the word made effectual to salvation ? 

A. The Spirit of God maketh the reading, but especially 
the preaching of the word, an effectual means of enlight- 
ening/ convincing and humbling sinners ; h of driving them 
out of themselves, and drawing them unto Christ ; * of 
conforming them to his image/' and subduing them to his 
will ; k of strengthening them against temptations and cor- 
ruptions ; ■ of building them up in grace, m and establish- 

tizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have 
commanded you : and lo, I am with yon alway, even unto the end of 
the world. Acts ii. 42, 46. And they continued steadfastly in the 
apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in 
prayers.— And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, 
and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with glad- 
ness and singleness of heart. 1 Tim. iv. 16. 1 Cor. i. 21. Eph. v. 19, 20, 
and vi. 17, 18. 

ff Psa. xix. 8. The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening 
the eyes. Acts xxvi. 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from 
darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God. 

h Jer. xxiii. 28, 29. And he that hath my word, let him speak my 
word faithfully.— Is not my word like as a fire? saith the Lord; and 
like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces? Heb. iv. 12. The 
word of God is quick and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged 
sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and 
of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and in- 
tents of the heart. Rom. viii. 16. 

* Acts ii. 37, 41. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in 
their heart, and said unto Peter, and to the rest of the apostles, Men, 
and brethren, what shall we do ? — Then they that gladly received his 
word, were baptized : and the same day there were added unto them 
about three thousand souls. Acts viii. 27 to 38. 

J 2 Cor. iii. 18. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the 
glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image, from glory to 
glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. Col. i. 25-27. 

* 2 Cor. x. 4, 5. (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but 
mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds;) casting 
down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against 
the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to 
the obedience of Christ. Rom. vi. 17. 

1 Psa. xix. 11. Moreover, by them is thy servant warned. Col. i. 28. 
Whom we preach, warning every man. Eph. vi. 16, 17. Above all, 
taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all 
the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and 
the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Matt. iv. 7, 10. 

m Eph. iv. 11, 12. And he gave some, apostles— and some, pastors and 
teachers ; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the minis- 



230 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

ing their hearts in holiness and comfort through faith unto 
salvation." 

Q. 156. Is the word of God to be read by all? 

A. Although all are not permitted to read the word 
publicly to the congregation, yet all sorts of people are 
bound to read it apart by themselves,^ and with their 
families : q to which end, the holy Scriptures are to be 
translated out of the original into vulgar languages/ 

Q. 157. How is the word of God to be read? 

A. The holy Scriptures are to be read with an high and 



try, for the edifying of the body of Christ, etc. Acts xx. 32. And now, 
brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which 
is able to build you up. 2 Tim. iii. 15, 16. 1 Cor. iii. 9, 10, 11. 

n Rom. xvi. 25. Now, to him that is of power to stablish you accord- 
ing to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the 
revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world be- 
gan. 1 Thess. iii. 2, 13. And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minis- 
ter of God, and our fellow-laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish 
you, and to comfort you concerning your faith, etc. Rom. x. 14 to 17. 

Deut. xxxi. 9, 12, 13. And Moses wrote this law, and delivered it 
unto the priests the sons of Levi — and unto all the elders of Israel. — 
Gather the people together, men, and women, and children, and thy 
stranger that is within thy gates,— that they may learn, and fear the 
Lord your God, and observe to do all the words of this law, etc. 

p Deut. xvii. 18, 19. And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne 
of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book, 
out of that which is before the priests the Levites : and it shall be with 
him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life.— Isa. xxxiv. 16. 
Seek ye out of the book of the Lord, and read.— John v. 39. Search the 
Scriptures.— Rev i. 3. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear 
the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written 
thereiD. 

? Deut. vi. 6, 7. And these words which I command thee this day, 
shall be in thine heart : and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy 
children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and 
when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when 
thou risest up. Psa. lxxviii. 5, 6. For he established a testimony in 
Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fa- 
thers, that they should make them known to their children : that the 
generation to come might know them, even the children which should 
be born ; who should arise and declare them to their children. 

* 1 Cor. xiv. 2 to 29.— ver. 18, 19. I thank my God, I speak with tongues 
more than ye all ; yet in the church I had rather speak five words with 
my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than 
ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 231 

reverent esteem of them ; * with a firm persuasion that 
they are the very word of God/ and that he only can en- 
able us to understand them ; u with desire to know, believe, 
and obey, the will of God revealed in them ; v with dili- 
gence, w and attention to the matter and scope of them ; x 
with meditation/ application,* self-denial, a and prayer. 6 
Q. 158. By whom is the word of God to be preached f 
A. The word of God is to be preached only by such as 
are sufficiently gifted, and also duly approved and called 
to that office.** 

8 Psa. cxix. 97. O how love I thy law ! — Neh. viii. 5. And Ezra 
opened the book in the sight of all the people— and when he opened 
it all the people stood np. — Isa. lxvi. 2.— But to this man will I look, 
even to him that is poor, and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my 
word. 

' 2 Pet. i. 21. Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the 
Holy Ghost. 1 Thess. ii. 13. 

u Psa. cxix. 18. Open thon mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous 
things out of thy law. Luke xxiv. 45. 

v James i. 21, 22. Receive with meekness the ingrafted word, which 
is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hear- 
ers only, deceiving your own selves. 1 Pet. ii. 2. As new-born babes 
desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. Mark 
iv. 20. 

w Acts xvii. 11. These [Bereans] were more noble than those in 
Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of 
mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so. 
Deut. xi. 13. 

* Acts viii. 30, 34. And Philip— said, Understandest thou what thou 
readest ?— and the eunuch answered Philip, — Of whom speaketh the 
prophet this ? of himself, or of some other man? Matt. xiii. 23. 

y Psa. i. 2. But his delight is in the law of the Lord ; and in his law 
doth he meditate day and night. Psa. cxix. 97. how love I thy 
law ! it is my meditation all the day. 

2 Acts ii. 38, 39. Repent, and be baptized every one of you— for the 
promise is unto you, and to your children. 2 Sam. xii. 7. 2 Chron. 
xxxiv. 21. 

« Gal. i. 15, 16. But when it pleased God— to reveal his Son in me, 
that I might preach him among the heathen ; immediately I conferred 
not with flesh and blood. Prov. iii. 5. 

b Neh. viii. 6, 8. See letter ( M ), above. 

■ 1 Tim. iii. 2-6. A bishop— must be blameless— apt to teach — not a 
novice. 2 Tim. ii. 2. And the things that thou hast heard of me, 
among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who 
shall be able to teach others also. Mai. ii. 7. 

<*Rom. x. 15. And how shall they preach, except they be sent? 



232 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Q. 159. How is the word of God to be preached by those 
that are called thereunto ? 

A. They that are called to labor in the ministry of the 
word are to preach sound doctrine, 6 diligently/ in season, 
and out of season ; 9 plainly/ not in the enticing words of 
man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and of 
power/ faithfully/' making known the whole counsel of 
God ; k wisely/ applying themselves to the necessities and ca- 
pacities of the hearers ; m zealously, 71 with fervent love to God, 



Heb. v. 4. And no man taketh this honor unto himself, but he that is 
called of God, as was Aaron. 1 Tim. iii. 10. And let these also first 
be proved ; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found 
blameless. 

• Tit. ii. 1, 8. But speak thou the things which become sound doc- 
trine : — Sound speech that cannot be condemned. 

/ Acts xviii. 25. Being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught dili- 
gently the things of the Lord. 

2 Tim. iv. 2. Preach the word : be instant in season, out of sea- 
son. 

h 1 Cor. xiv. 9. Except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be un- 
derstood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak 
into the air. 

» 1 Cor. ii. 4. And my speech, and my preaching was not with entic- 
ing words of man's wisdom, bat in demonstration of the Spirit, and 
of power. 

J Jer. xxiii. 28. He that hath my word, let him speak my word faith- 
fully. 1 Cor. iv. 1, 2. Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers 
of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is re- 
quired in stewards, that a man be found faithful. Matt. xxiv. 45, 40, 
47. 

* Acts xx. 27. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the 
counsel of God. 

1 Col. i. 28. Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching 
every man in all wisdom. 2 Tim. ii. 15. Study to show thyself ap- 
proved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly 
dividing the word of truth. 

m 1 Cor. iii. 2. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat : for 
hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. Heb. 
v. 12, 13, 14. IThess. ii. 7. Luke xii. 42. 

n Acts xviii. 25. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord ; 
and, being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the 
things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. 2 Tim. iv. 5. 

2 Cor. v. 13, 14. For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God ; or 
whether we be sober, it is for your cause. For the love of Christ con- 
straineth us ; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were 
all dead. Phil. i. 15, 16, 17. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 233 

and the souls of his people ; p sincerely, q aiming at his glory/ 
and their conversion/ edification/ and salvation. 1 * 

Q. 160. What is required of those that hear the wora 
preached ? 

A. It is required of those that hear the word preached, 
that they attend upon it with diligence/ preparation/ and 
prayer ; x examine what they hear by the Scriptures ; y re- 
ceive the truth with faith/ love, a meekness/ and readiness 

p 2 Cor. xii. 15. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you , 
though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved. 1 Thess. 
iii. 12. 

9 2 Cor iv. 2. But have renounced the hidden things of dishon- 
esty ; not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceit- 
fully ; but, by manifestation of the truth, commending ourselves to 
every man's conscience in the sight of God. 2 Cor. ii. 17. 

r John vii. 18. He that speaketh of himself, seeketh his own glory : 
but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no 
unrighteousness is in him. 1 Thess. ii. 4, 5, 6. 

8 1 Cor. ix. 19, 20, 21, 22. For though I be free from all men, yet have 
I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more, etc.— I am 
made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 

1 2 Cor. xii. 19. But we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edify- 
ing. Eph. iv. 12. 

u 1 Tim. iv. 16. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine ; con- 
tinue in them : for in doing this, thou shalt both save thyself, and 
them that hear thee. 2 Tim. ii. 10. Therefore I endure all things for 
the elect's sake, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in 
Christ Jesus with eternal glory. Acts xxvi. 16-18. 

v Psa. lxxxiv. 1, 2, 4. How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of 
hosts ! My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth, for the courts of the Lord. 
—Blessed are they that dwell in thy house : they will be still praising 
thee. Psa. xxvii. 4. Prov. viii. 34. 

w Luke viii. 18. Take heed, therefore, how ye hear. 1 Pet. ii. 1, 2. 
Wherefore, laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and 
envies, and all evil speakings, as new-born babes, desire the sincere 
milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. James i. 21. 

• Psa. cxix. 18. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous 
things out of thy law. Eph. vi. 18, 19. 

v Acts xvii. 11. And searched the Scriptures daily, whether those 
things were so. 

2 Heb. iv. 2. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto 
them : but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed 
with faith in them that heard it. 

« 2 Thess. ii. 10.— They received not the love of the truth, that they 
might be saved. 

6 James i. 21. Receive with meekness the ingrafted word. Psa. 
xxv. 9. 



234 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

of mind, c as the word of God ; d meditate, 6 and confer of 
it ; f hide it in their hearts/ and bring forth the fruit of it 
in their lives.* 

Q. 161. How do the sacraments become effectual means of 
salvation f 

A. The sacraments become effectual means of salvation, 
not by any power in themselves, or any virtue derived 
from the piety or intention of him by whom they are 
administered ; but only by the working of the Holy 
Ghost, and the blessing of Christ by whom they are in- 
stituted.* 

Q. 162. What u a sacrament ? 

A. k sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ 

c Acts xvii. 11. These were more noble than those in Thessaloni- 
ca, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind. Acts 
ii. 41. 

d 1 Thess. ii. 13. For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, 
because, when ye received the word of God, which ye heard of us, ye 
received it not as the word of men, but, as it is in truth, the word of 
God. 

■ Heb. ii. 1. Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to 
the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them 
slip. 

/Deut. vi. 6, 7. And these words, which I command thee this day, 
shall be in thine heart ; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy 
children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and 
when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when 
thou risest up. 

9 Psa. cxix. 11. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might 
not sin against thee. Prov. ii. 1. 

h Luke viii. 15. But that on the good ground are they, which, in an 
honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring 
forth fruit with patience. James i. 25. 

* 1 Pet. iii. 21. The like figure whereunto, even baptism, doth also 
now save us, (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the 
answer of a good conscience towards God) by the resurrection of Jesus 
Christ. Acts viii. 13. Then Simon himself believed also : and when 
he was baptized he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding 
the miracles and signs which were done. [His baptism, notwithstand- 
ing, was ineffectual to any saving purpose, for Peter said to him] ver. 
23,-1 perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond 
of iniquity. 1 Cor. iii. 7. So, then, neither is he that planteth any 
thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. 
1 Cor. vi. 11.— But ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justi- 
fied in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 235 

in his church/' to signify, seal, and exhibit* unto those 
that are within the covenant of grace/ the benefits of his 
mediation ; m to strengthen and increase their faith and all 
other graces ; n to oblige them to obedience ; ° to testify 
and cherish their love and communion one with an- 
other* and to distinguish them from those that are with- 
out.* 

Q. 163. What are the parts of a sacrament f 
A. The parts of a sacrament are two : the one, an out- 
ward and sensible sign used according to Christ's own ap- 

i Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy- 
Ghost. Matt. xxvi. 26, 27. And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, 
and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, 
Take, eat ; this is my body. 

* Rom. iv. 11. And he [Abraham] received the sign of circumcision, 
a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had, yet being un- 
circumcised ; that he might be the father of all them that believe, 
though they be not circumcised ; that righteousness might be imputed 
unto them also. 1 Cor. xi. 24, 25. 

1 Rom. ix. 8. The children of the promise are counted for the seed. 
Gal. iv. 28. Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of prom- 
ise. Rom. xv. 8, 9. 

m Acts ii. 38. Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized 
every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of 
sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 1 Cor. x. 16. The 
cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood 
of Christ ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of 
the body of Christ ? Acts xxii. 16. 

n Rom. xv. 8, 9. Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the 
circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto 
the fathers : and that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. 
Gal. iii. 27. 

* Rom. vi. 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into 
death ; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of 
the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 1 Cor. x. 
21. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils : ye 
cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. 

p 1 Cor. xii. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, 
whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free ; and have 
been all made to drink into one Spirit. 1 Cor. x. 17.— We, being many, 
are one bread, and one body : for we are all partakers of that one 
bread. Eph. iv. 3, 4, 5. 

i Eph. ii. 19. Now, therefore, ye are no more strangers, and foreign- 
ers, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God. 
Gen. xxxiv. 14. 



236 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

pointrnent ; the other, an inward and spiritual grace there- 
by signified/ 

Q. 164. How many sacraments hath Christ instituted in 
his church under the New Testament? 

A. Under the New Testament Christ hath instituted in 
his church only two sacraments, baptism, and the Lord's 
supper.* 

Q. 165. WJiat is baptism f 

A. Baptism is a sacrament of the New Testament, where- 
in Christ hath ordained the washing with water in the 
name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost/ to be a sign and seal of ingrafting into himself," 
of remission of sins by his blood, w and regeneration by his 
Spirit ; w of adoption,* and resurrection unto everlasting 
life : y and whereby the parties baptized are solemnly ad- 
mitted into the visible church,* and enter into an open and 
professed engagement to be wholly and only the Lord's. 

r Matt. iii. 11. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance : 
but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not 
worthy to bear : he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with 
fire. IPet. iii. 21. 

* 1 Cor. xi. 23. See letter (-0, page 235. 

* Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. 

u Gal. iii. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ 
have put on Christ. Rom. vi. 3. 

v Acts xxii. 16. Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins. 
Mark i. 4. John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism 
of repentance for the remission of sins. Rev. i. 5. 

«• John iii. 5. Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he 
cannot enter into the kingdom of God.— Tit. iii. 5. — According to his 
mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of 
the Holy Ghost. 

* Gal. iii. 26, 27. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ 
Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have 
put on Christ. 

y 1 Cor. xv. 29. Else what shall they do which are baptized for the 
dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the 
dead? 

z 1 Cor. xii. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, 
whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free : and 
have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 

a Rom. vi. 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 237 

Q. 166. Unto whom is baptism to be administered f 
A. Baptism is not to be administered to any that are out 
of the visible church, and so strangers from the covenant 
of promise, till they profess their faith in Christ, and obe- 
dience to him ; 6 but infants descending from parents, 
either both or but one of them, professing faith in Christ, 
and obedience to him, are in that respect within the cov- 
enant, and are to be baptized. 

Q. 167. How is our baptism to be improved by us f 
A. The needful but much neglected duty of improving 
our baptism, is to be performed by us all our life long, es- 
pecially in the time of temptation, and when we are pres- 
ent at the administration of it to others,** by serious and 
thankful consideration of the nature of it, and of the ends 
for which Christ instituted it, the privileges and benefits 
conferred and sealed thereby, and our solemn vow made 
therein ; e by being humbled for our sinful defilement, our 
falling short of, and walking contrary to, the grace of bap- 
tism and our engagements ; f by growing up to assurance 

death ; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory 
of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 

6 Acts viii. 36, 37. And the eunuch said, See, here is water : what 
doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest 
with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I be- 
lieve that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Acts ii. 41. Then they that 
gladly received his word, were baptized. 

c Acts ii. 38, 39. Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized 
every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, 
and ye shall receive the— Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, 
and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the 
Lord our God shall call. Luke xviii. 16. But Jesus called them unto 
him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them 
not; for of such is the kingdom of God. 1 Cor. vii. 14. The unbe- 
lieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is 
sanctified by the husband : else were your children unclean ; but now 
are they holy. Rom. xi. 16. Gen. xvii. 7 to 9, compared with Gal. iii. 
9 to 14, and Col. ii. 11, 12. 

d Psa. xxii. 10, 11. I was cast upon thee from the womb : thou art my 
God from my mother's belly. Be not far from me ; for trouble is near. 

• Rom. vi. 3, 4, 5. 

/Rom. vi. 2, 3. God forbid. How shall we that are dead to sin, live 
any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were bap- 
tized into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death ? 1 Cor. i. 11-13. 
Gal. iii. 1. 



238 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

of pardon of sin, and of all other blessings sealed to us in 
that sacrament ; 9 by drawing strength from the death and 
resurrection of Christ, into whom we are baptized, for the 
mortifying of sin, and quickening of grace ; h and by en- 
deavoring to live by faith/ to have our conversation in 
holiness and righteousness/" as those that have therein 
given up their names to Christ,* and to walk in brotherly 
love, as being baptized by the same Spirit into one body/ 

Q. 168. What is the Lord's supper f 

A. The Lord's supper is a sacrament of the New Testa- 
ment,"* wherein, by giving and receiving bread and wine 
according to the appointment of Jesus Christ, his death is 
showed forth ; and they that worthily communicate, feed 
upon his body and blood, to their spiritual nourishment 
and growth in grace ; n have their union and communion 

ff Phil. iii. 7 to 10, 11. But what things were gain to me, those I 
counted loss for Christ :— That I may know him, and the power of his 
resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made con- 
formable unto his death ; if by any means I might attain unto the res- 
urrection of the dead, etc. Rom. iv. 11, 12. 1 Pet. iii. 21. 

h Rom. vi. 2, 3, 4. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer 
therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus 
Christ, were baptized into his death ? Therefore we are buried with 
him by baptism into death ; that like as Christ was raised up from the 
dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in new- 
ness of life. 

' Gal. iii. 26, 27. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ 
Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have 
put on Christ. 

i Rom. vi. 22. But now being made free from sin, and become ser- 
vants to God, ve have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting 
life. 

* Acts ii. 38. Be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus 
Christ. 

1 1 Cor. xii. 13 to 25, 26. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into 
one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or 
free ; — that there should be no schism in the body ; but that the mem- 
bers should have the same care one for another. And whether one 
member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be hon- 
ored, all the members rejoice with it. 

m Luke xxii. 20. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This 
cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you. 

71 Matt. xxvi. 26, 27. And said, Take, eat ; this is my body. And he 
took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 239 

with him confirmed ; ° testify and renew their thankful- 
ness 1 ' and engagement to God, ? and their mutual love and 
fellowship each with other, as members of the same mys- 
tical body/ 

Q. 169. How hath Christ appointed bread and wine to be 
given and received in the sacrament of the LoroVs supper f 

A. Christ hath appointed the ministers of his word, in 
the administration of this sacrament of the Lord's supper, 
to set apart the bread and wine from common use by the 
word of institution, thanksgiving, and prayer ; to take and 
break the bread, and to give both the bread and the wine 
to the communicants : who are by the same appointment 
to take and eat the bread, and to drink the wine ; in thank- 
ful remembrance that the body of Christ was broken and 
given, and his blood shed for them. 8 

Q. 170. How do they that worthily communicate in the LoroVs 
supper feed upon the body and blood of Christ therein f 

A. As the body and blood of Christ are not corporally 
or carnally present in, with, or under the bread and wine 
in the Lord's supper ; t and yet are spiritually present to 



all of it. John vi. 55, 56.— My flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is 
drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwell- 
eth in me, and I in him. 1 Cor. xi. 23 to 27. 

1 Cor. x. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the com- 
munion of the blood of Christ ? The bread which we break, is it not 
the communion of the body of Christ ? 

p 1 Cor. xi. 25. This cup is the New Testament in my blood : this do 
ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. 

9 1 Cor. x. 16 to 21. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the 
communion of the blood of Christ ? The bread which we break, is it 
not the communion of the body of Christ ? Ye cannot drink the cup 
of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the 
Lord's table, and of the table of devils. 

■" 1 Cor. x. 17. For we, being many, are one bread, and one body : for 
we are all partakers of that one bread. 

* Mark xiv. 22, 23, 24. And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and 
blessed, and brake it, and gave to them and said— This is my body. 
And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to 
them : and they all drank of it. 1 Cor. xi. 23, 24. Matt. xxvi. 26 to 28. 
Eph. ii. 11, 13. 

* Acts iii. 21. Whom the heaven must receive until the times of res- 
titution of all things. 



240 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

the faith of the receiver, no less truly and really than the 
elements themselves are to their outward senses ; u so they 
that worthily communicate in the sacrament of the Lord's 
supper, do therein feed upon the body and blood of Christ, 
not after a corporal or carnal, but in a spiritual manner ; 
yet truly and really , v while by faith they receive and apply 
unto themselves Christ crucified, and all the benefits of his 
death." 

Q. 171. How are they that receive the sacrament of the 
Lord's supper to prepare 'themselves before they come unto itf 

A. They that receive the sacrament of the Lord's sup- 
per, are, before they come, to prepare themselves there- 
unto, by examining themselves x of their being in Christ/ 
of their sins and wants ; x of the truth and measure of their 
knowledge," faith, 5 repentance, love to God and the breth- 
ren,* charity to all men, 6 forgiving those that have done 

u Gal. iii. 1. O foolish Galatians— before whose eyes Jesus Christ 
hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you. Heb. xi. 1. 

v John vi. 51 to 53. I am the living bread, which came down from 
heaven : if any man eat of this bread he shall live for ever: and the 
bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the 
world.— Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his 
blood, ye have no life in you. 

" 1 Cor. x. 16. See letter (<>), page 239. 

x 1 Cor. xi. 28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat 
of that bread, and drink of that cup. 

y 2 Cor. xiii. 5. Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith ; 
prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus 
Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 

* 1 Cor. v. 7. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a 
new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sac- 
rificed for us. Compared with Ex. xii. 15. 

° 1 Cor. xi. 29. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth 
and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. 

6 2 Cor. xiii. 5. See letter (v), above. 

e Zech. xii. 10. And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon 
the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications ; 
and they sha' ! look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall 
mourn for him as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bit- 
terness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his first-born. 1 Cor. 
xi. 31. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 

d 1 Cor. x. 17. For we, being many, are one bread, and one body ; 
for we are all partakers of that one bread. 

c 1 Cor. v. 8. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 241 

them wrong/ of their desires after Christ/ and of their 
new obedience ; h and by renewing the exercise of these 
graces/ by serious meditation/' and fervent prayer.* 

Q. 172. May one who doubteth of his being in Christ, or 
of his due preparation, come to the Lord's supper ? 

A. One who doubteth of his being in Christ, or of his 
due preparation to the sacrament of the Lord's supper, 
may have true interest in Christ, though he be not yet as- 
sured thereof/ and in God's account hath it, if he be duly 
affected with the apprehension of the want of it, m and un- 
feignedly desires to be found in Christ/ and to depart 

neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness ; but with the un- 
leavened bread of sincerity and truth ? 1 Cor. xi. 18, 20. 

/Matt. v. 23, 24. Therefore, if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and 
there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee ; leave 
there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to 
thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 

s John vii. 37. Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let 
him come unto me and drink. Luke i. 53. He hath filled the hungry 
with good things. Isa. lv. 1. 

h 1 Cor. v. 8. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven- 
but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 

* Heb. x. 21, 22, 24. And having an high-priest over the house of 
God ; let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, 
having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies 
washed with pure water.— And let us consider one another to provoke 
unto love and to good works. Psa. xxvi. 6. 

J 1 Cor. xi. 24. This do, in remembrance of me. 

* Matt. xxvi. 26. Jesus took bread, and blessed it. 2 Chron. xxx. 
18, 19. 

1 Isa. 1. 10. Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth 
the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light ? 
let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God. 1 John 
v. 13. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name 
of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and 
that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 

m Isa. liv. 7, 8, 10. For a small moment have I forsaken thee ; but 
with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face 
from thee for a moment ; but with everlasting kindness will I have 
mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy Redeemer.— For the mountains 
shall depart, and the hills be removed ; but my kindness shall not de- 
part from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, 
saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee. Matt. v. 3, 4. Psa. xxxi. 22. 

n Psa. xlii. 11. Why art thou cast down, O my soul ? and why art 
thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise 
him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. 

16 



242 THE LARGER CATECHISM, 

from iniquity : ° in which case (because promises are made, 
and this sacrament is appointed, for the relief even of 
weak and doubting Christians)* he is to bewail his unbe- 
lief, 2 and labor to have his doubts resolved ; r and, so doing, 
he may and ought to come to the Lord's supper, that he 
may be further strengthened.* 

Q. 173. May any who profess the faith, and desire to 
come to the Lord's supper, be kept from it f 

A. Such as are found to be ignorant or scandalous, not- 
withstanding their profession of the faith, and desire to 
come to the Lord's supper, may and ought to be kept from 
that sacrament by the power which Christ hath left in his 
church/ until they receive instruction, and manifest their 
reformation." 

Q. 174. What is required of them that receive the sacra- 
ment of the Lord's supper in the time of the administration 
of it? 

A. It is required of them that receive the sacrament of 

2 Tim. ii. 19. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, 
having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let 
every one that nameth the name of Christ, depart from iniquity. 
Rom. vii. 24, 25. O wretched man that I am ! who shall deliver me 
from the body of this death ? I thank God through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. 

p Matt. xxvi. 28. For this is my blood of the New Testament, which 
is shed for many, for the remission of sins. Matt. xi. 28. Come unto 
me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 
Isa. xl. 11, 29, 31. 

9 Mark ix. 21. And said with tears, Lord, I believe ; help thou mine 
unbelief. 

r Acts xvi. 30. And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I 
do to be saved ? Acts ix. 6. 

8 1 Cor. xi. 28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of 
that bread, and drink of that cup. Matt. xi. 28. 

' 1 Cor. xi. 29. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth 
and drinketh damnation [judgment] to himself, not discerning the 
Lord's body. 1 Cor. v. 11. But now I have written unto you not to 
keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or 
covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner ; 
with such an one, no, not to eat. Matt. vii. 6. Jude 23. 

tt Gal. vi. 1. Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which 
arc spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness ; consider- 
ing thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 243 

the Lord's supper, that, during the time of the administra- 
tion of it, with all holy reverence and attention they wait 
upon God in that ordinance/ diligently observe the sac- 
ramental elements and actions," needfully discern the 
Lord's body, x and affectionately meditate on his death and 
sufferings/ and thereby stir up themselves to a vigorous 
exercise of their graces ; z in judging themselves a and sor- 
rowing for sin ; h in earnest hungering and thirsting after 
Christ, feeding on him by faith/ receiving of his fullness, 6 
trusting in his merits, •''rejoicing in his love/ giving thanks 

v Heb. xii. 28. Wherefore, we receiving a kingdom which cannot be 
moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with 
reverence and godly fear. Lev. x. 3. 

w Gal. iii. 1. Before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set 
torth, crucified among you. 

x 1 Cor. xi. 29. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eat- 
eth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's 
body. 

y Luke xxii. 19. And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, 
and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you; 
this do in remembrance of me. 

* Eph. iii. 17, 18, 19. That ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 
may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and 
length, and depth, and height ; and to know the love of Christ, which 
passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of 
God. 

a 1 Cor. xi. 31. For if we would judge ourselves we should not be 
judged. 

b Zech. xii. 10. And they shall look upon me whom they have 
pierced, and they shall mourn. 

e Rev. xxii. 17. And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let 
him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And 
whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. 

d Gal. ii. 20. And the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the 
faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. John 
vi. 35. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life : he that com- 
eth to me shall never hunger ; and he that believeth on me shall never 
thirst. 

e John i. 16. And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for 
grace. Col. i. 19. 

/ Phil. iii. 9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteous- 
ness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, 
the righteousness which is of God by faith. 

a 1 Pet. i. 8. Whom having not seen, ye love : in whom, though now 
ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full 
of glory. 2 Chron. xxx. 21. 



244 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

for his grace ; h in renewing of their covenant with God,' 
and love to all the saints. 

Q. 175. What is the duty of Christians, after they have re- 
ceived the sacrament of the Lord's supper f 

A. The duty of Christians, after they have received the 
sacrament of the Lord's supper, is seriously to consider 
how they have behaved themselves therein, and with what 
success ; k if they find quickening and comfort, to bless 
God for it, 1 beg the continuance of it,"* watch against re- 
lapses, 71 fulfill their vows, and encourage themselves to a 
frequent attendance on that ordinance : p but if they find 
no present benefit, more exactly to review their prepara- 
tion to, and carriage at the sacrament; q in both which if 
they can approve themselves to God and their own con- 
sciences, they are to wait for the fruit of it in due time : r 
but if they see that they have failed in either, they are to 

h Psa. xxii. 26. The meek shall eat and be satisfied : they shall praise 
the Lord that seek him : your heart shall live for ever. 

» Jer. 1. 5. Come, and let us join ourselves to the Lord in a perpetual 
covenant that shall not be forgotten. Psa. 1. 5. 

i 1 Cor. x. 17. For we, being many, are one bread, and one body; for 
we are all partakers of that one bread. Acts ii. 42. 

* 1 Cor. xi. 17, 30, 31. Now in this that I declare unto you I praise 
you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse. — 
For this cause, etc. Psa. lxxiii. 28. 

1 2 Cor. ii. 14. Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to 
triumph in Christ. Acts ii. 42, 46, 47. 

m Rom. xv. 13. Now, the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace 
in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the 
Holy Ghost. Psa. xxxvi. 10. 

n 1 Cor. x. 12. Wherefore, let him that thinketh he standeth take 
heed lest he fall. Rom. xi. 20. 

Psa. 1. 14. Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto 
the Most High. 

p 1 Cor. xi. 25, 26. Psa. xxvii. 4. Acts ii. 42. 

9 Psa. lxxvii. 6. I commune with mine own heart ; and my spirit 
made diligent search. Psa. cxxxix. 23, 24. Search me, O God, and 
know my heart ; try me, and know my thoughts ; and see if there be 
any wicked way in me. and lead me in the way everlasting. 

r Psa. cxxiii. 1, 2. Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, thou that dwell- 
est in the heavens. Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the 
hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of 
her mistress: so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until that he 
have mercy upon us. Isa. viii. 17. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 245 

be humbled,* and to attend upon it afterward with more 
care and diligence/ 

Q. 176. Wherein do the sacraments of baptism and the 
Lord's supper agree ? 

A. The sacraments of baptism and the Lord's supper 
agree, in that the author of both is God; w the spiritual 
part of both is Christ and his benefits ; v both are seals of 
the same covenant, 20 are to be dispensed by ministers of 
the gospel and by none other ; z and to be continued in the 
church of Christ until his second coming. y 

* Hos. xiv. 2. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord ; say unto 
him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously ; so will we 
render the calves of our lips. Hosea vi. 1, 2. 

* 2 Cor. vii. 11. For, behold, this self-same thing, that ye sorrowed 
after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clear- 
ing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what ve- 
hement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge ! In all things ye have 
approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. 1 Chron. xv. 12 to 14. 

» Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. 1 Cor. xi. 23. For I have received of the Lord, that which also 
I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he 
was betrayed, took bread. 

v Rom. vi. 3, 4. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized 
into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death ? Therefore we are 
buried with him by baptism into death : that like as Christ was raised 
up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should 
walk in newness of life. 1 Cor. x. 16. The cup of blessing which we 
bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ ? The bread 
which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ ? 

w Col. ii. 11, 12. In whom also ye are circumcised with the circum- 
cision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the 
flesh by the circumcision of Christ; buried with him in baptism, 
wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation 
of God, who hath raised him from the dead. Compared with Rom. iv. 
11. Matt. xxvi. 27, 28. And he took the cup and gave thanks, and 
gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it ; for this is my blood of the 
New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 

* Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. 1 Cor. xi. 23. For I have received of the Lord, that which I 
also delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus, the same night in which 
he was betrayed, took bread. 1 Cor. iv. 1. Let a man so account of 
us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 
Heb. v. 4. 

v Matt, xxviii. 20. Teaching them [all nations] to observe all things 



246 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

Q. 177. Wherein do the sacraments of baptism and the 
Lord's supper differ f 

A. The sacraments of baptism and the Lord's supper 
differ, in that baptism is to be administered but once, 
with water, to be a sign and seal of our regeneration and 
ingrafting into Christ, 2 and that even to infants ; a where- 
as the Lord's supper is to be administered often, in the 
elements of bread and wine, to represent and exhibit 
Christ as spiritual nourishment to the soul, 6 and to con- 
firm our continuance and growth in him, c and that only to 
such as are of years and ability to examine themselves.* 

Q. 178. What is prayer ? 

A. Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God, e in 
the name of Christ/ by the help of his Spirit;* 7 with con- 



whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, 
even unto the end of the world. 1 Cor. xi. 26. For as often as ye eat 
this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he 
come. 

* Matt. iii. 11. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance : 
but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not 
worthy to bear : he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with 
fire. Gal. iii. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized into 
Christ, have put on Christ. Titus iii. 5. 

a Acts ii. 38, 39. Repent, and be baptized every one of you.— For the 
promise is unto you and to your children. 1 Cor. vii. 14.— The unbe- 
lieving wife is sanctified by the husband : else were your children un- 
clean; but now are they holy. — See letter ( c ), page 237. 

b 1 Cor. xi. 26. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, 
ye do show the Lord's death till he come. Col. ii. 19.— Not holding the 
head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourish- 
ment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of 
God. 

c 1 Cor. x. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the com- 
munion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not 
the communion of the body of Christ ? Eph. iv. 15, 16. 

d 1 Cor. xi. 28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat 
of that bread, and drink of that cup. 

«Psa. lxii. 8. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your 
heart before him ; God is a refuge for us. 

/John xvi. 23, 24. Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, 
he will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name ; ask, 
and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. 

si Rom. viii. 26. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities : for 
we know not what we should pray for as we ought ; but the Spirit it- 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 247 

fession of our sins, A and thankful acknowledgment of his 
mercies.' 

Q. 179. Are we to pray unto God only ? 

A. God only being able to search the hearts/ hear the 
requests,* pardon the sins/ and fulfill the desires of all; m 
and only to be believed in, n and worshiped with religious 
worship : ° prayer, which is a special part thereof, p is to 
be made by all to him alone/ and to none other/ 

Q. 180. What is it to pray in the name of Christ f 

A. To pray in the name of Christ, is, in obedience to 

self maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be ut- 
tered. 

h Dan. ix. 4. And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my 
confession. Psa. xxxii. 5, 6.— I said, I will confess my transgressions 
unto the Lord ; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. For 
this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee, in a time when thou 
mayest be found. 

* Phil. iv. 6. In every thing by prayer and supplication with thanks- 
giving let your requests be made known unto God. 

i\ Kings viii. 39. Thou, even thou only, knowest the hearts of all 
the children of men. Acts i. 24. And they prayed, and said, Thou, 
Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, show whether of these two 
thou hast chosen. Rom. viii. 27. 

* Psa. lxv. 2. O thou that hearest prayer, unto thee shall all flesh 
come. 

* Micah vii. 18. Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniq- 
uity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage ? 

m Psa. cxlv. 16, 19. Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the de- 
sire of every living thing.— He will fulfill the desire of them that fear 
him. 

» 2 Sam. xxii. 32. For who is God, save the Lord? and who is a rock 
save our God ? John xiv. 1. Let not your heart be troubled : ye be- 
lieve in God. 

Matt. iv. 10. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan : 
for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only 
shalt thou serve. 

p 1 Cor. i. 2. Unto the church of God, which is at Corinth, to them 
that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saiDts, with all that in 
every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs 
and ours. 

1 1sa. xlii. 8. I am the Lord ; that is my name : and my glory will I 
not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. Luke iv. 8. 
Psa. 1. 15. 

r Jer. iii. 23. Truly in vain is salvation hoped for from the hills, and 
from the multitude of mountains : truly in the Lord our God is the 
salvation of Israel. Jer. xiv. 22. Rom. x. 14. 



248 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

his command, and in confidence on his promises, to ask 
mercy for his sake :* not by bare mentioning of his name ; ' 
but by drawing our encouragement to pray, and our bold- 
ness, strength, and hope of acceptance in prayer, from 
Christ and his mediation. 1 * 

Q. 181. Why are we to pray in the name of Christ t 
A. The sinfulness of man, and his distance from God 
by reason thereof, being so great, as that we can have no 
access into his presence without a mediator ; v and there 
being none in heaven or earth appointed to, or fit for, that 
glorious work but Christ alone ; w we are to pray in no other 
name but his only.* 

Q. 182. How doth the Splint help us to pray f 
A. We not knowing what to pray for as we ought, the 
Spirit helpeth our infirmities, by enabling us to under- 

■ John xiv. 13, 14. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that 
will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask 
any thing in my name, I will do it. Dan. ix. 37. 

* Luke vi. 46. And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things 
which I say ? Matt. vii. 21. 

u Heb. iv. 14, 15, 16. Seeing then that we have a great high-priest, 
that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast 
our profession. For we have not an high-priest which cannot be 
touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points 
tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly 
unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to 
help in time of need. 1 John v. 13, 14, 15. 

v John xiv. 6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and 
the life : no man cometh unto the Father but by me. Eph. iii. 12. In 
whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. 

* Heb. vii. 25, 26, 27. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the 
uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make 
intercession for them. For such an high-priest became us, who is holy, 
harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the 
heavens ; who needeth not daily, as those high-priests, to offer up sac- 
rifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's : for this he did 
once, when he offered up himself. 1 Tim. ii. 5. For there is one God, 
and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. John 
vi. 27. 

* Col. iii. 17. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the 
name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. 
Heb. xiii. 15. By him, therefore, let us offer the sacrifice of praise to 
God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his 
name. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 249 

stand both for whom, and what, and how prayer is to be 
made; and by working and quickening in our hearts (al- 
though not in all persons, nor at all times in the same 
measure) those apprehensions, affections, and graces, 
which are requisite for the right performance of that 
duty.* 

Q. 183. For whom are we to pray f 

A. We are to pray for the whole church of Christ upon 
earth ; z for magistrates a and ministers ; b for ourselves, our 
brethren, d yea, our enemies; 6 and for all sorts of men liv- 
ing, f or that shall live hereafter ; 9 but not for the dead,* 
nor for those that are known to have sinned the sin unto 
death.* 

Q. 184. For what things are we to pray f 

A. We are to pray for all things tending to the glory of 

v Rom. viii. 26. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities : for 
we know not what we should pray for as we ought; but the Spirit it- 
self maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be ut- 
tered. Psa. lxxx. 18.— Quicken us, and we will call upon thy name. 
Psa. x. 17. Zech. xii. 10. 

2 Eph. vi. 18. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in 
the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and suppli- 
cation for all saints. Psa. xxviii. 9. Save thy people, and bless thine 
inheritance ; feed them also and lift them up for ever. 

a 1 Tim. ii. 1, 2. I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, 
prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men ; for 
kings, and for all that are in authority. 

b 2 Thess. iii. 1. Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the 
Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you. 
Col. iv. 3. 

c Gen. xxxii. 11. Deliver me, I pray thee, from the hand of my 
brother, from the hand of Esau : for I fear him, lest he will come and 
smite me, and the mother with the children. 

d James v. 16. Pray one for another, that ye may be healed. 2 Thess. 
i. 11. 

e Matt. v. 44. Pray for them which despitefully use you, and perse- 
cute you. 

/I Tim. ii. 1, 2. See letter («), above. 

9 John xvii. 20. Neither pray I for these alone ; but for them also 
which shall believe on me through their word. 2 Sam. vii. 29. 

* 2 Sam. xii. 23. But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? Can 
I bring him back again ? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to 
me. 

* 1 John v. 16. There is a sin unto death : I do not say that he shall 
pray for it. 



250 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

God/' the welfare of the church,* our own 1 or others' 
good ; m but not for any thing that is unlawful.* 1 

Q. 185. How are we to pray f 

A. We are to pray with an awful apprehension of the 
majesty of God, and deep sense of our own un worthiness/ 
necessities, 5 and sins ; r with penitent/ thankful,' and en- 
larged hearts ; u with understanding/ faith,™ sincerity, 1 

3 Matt. vi. 9. Our Father which art in heaven ; hallowed be thy 
name. 

* Psa. li. 18. Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion ; build thou 
the walls of Jerusalem. Psa. cxxii. 6. Pray for the peace of Jerusa- 
lem : they shall prosper that love thee. 

1 Matt. vii. 11. If ye, then, being evil, know how to give good gifts 
unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in 
heaven give good things to them that ask him? 

m Psa. cxxv. 4. Do good, O Lord, unto those that be good, and to 
them that are upright in their hearts. 1 Thess. v. 23, and 2 Thess. iii. 
16. 

n 1 John v. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that 
if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us. James iv. 3. 
Ye ask and receive not, because ye ask amiss. 

Psa. xxxiii. 8. Let all the earth fear the Lord : let all the inhabit- 
ants of the world stand in awe of him.— Psa. xcv. 6. O come, let us 
worship and bow down ; let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. 

p Gen. xviii. 27. And Abraham answered and said, Behold now, I 
have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord, which am but dust and 
ashes. Psa. cxliv. 3. 

? Psa. lxxxvi. 1. Bow down thine ear, O Lord, hear me : for I am 
poor and needy. Luke xv. 17. 

r Psa. cxxx. 3. If thou, Lord, shouldstmark iniquities, Lord, who 
shall stand? Luke xviii. 13. And the publican, standing afar off*, 
would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon 
his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 

« Psa. li. 17. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit : a broken and 
a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. Zech. xii. 10, etc. 

' Phil. iv. 6. In every thing by prayer and supplication with 
thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 1 Thess. 
v. 18. 

u Psa. lxxxi. 10. Open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it. Eph. iii. 
20, 21. Now, unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above 
all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 
unto him be glory in the church, etc. 

v 1 Cor. xiv. 15. What is it then ? I will pray with the spirit, and I 
will pray with the understanding also. 

» Heb. x. 22. Let us draw near— in full assurance of faith, etc. 
James i. 6. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. 

* Heb. x. 22. Let us draw near with a true heart.— Psa. cxlv. 18. The 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 251 

fervency , y love,* and perseverance," waiting upon him 6 
with humble submission to his will. 6 

Q. 186. What rule hath God given for our direction in the 
duty of prayer f 

A. The whole word of God is of use to direct us in the 
duty of praying ; d but the special rule of direction is that 
form of prayer which our Saviour Christ taught his disci- 
ples, commonly called, The Lord's Prayer. 6 

Q. 187. How is the Lord's prayer to be used f 

A. The Lord's prayer is not only for direction, as a pat- 
tern according to which we are to make other prayers ; but 
may be also used as a prayer so that it be done with un- 
derstanding, faith, reverence, and other graces necessary to 
the right performance of the duty of prayer/ 

Q. 188. Of how many parts doth the Lord's prayer con- 
sist f 

A. The Lord's prayer consists of three parts, a preface, 
petitions, and a conclusion. 

Q. 189. What doth the preface of the Lord' s prayer teach 
us f 

A. The preface of the Lord's prayer (contained in these 
words, Our Father which art in heaven) 9 teacheth us, when 

Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him,— in truth. Psa. xvii. 1. 
John iv. 24. 

v James v. 16. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man 
availeth much. 

z 1 Tim. ii. 8. I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up 
holy hands, without wrath and doubting. Matt. v. 23, 24. 

° Eph. vi. 18. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in 
the spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance. 

b Micah vii. 7. Therefore I will look unto the Lord ; I will wait for 
the God of my salvation : my God will hear me. 

c Matt. xxvi. 39. And he went a little further and fell on his face, 
and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass 
from me : nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt. 

d 2 Tim. iii. 16, 17. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and 
is profitable for doctrine,— that the man of God may be perfect, thor- 
oughly furnished unto all good works. 1 John v. 14. 

« Matt. vi. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13. Luke xi. 2, 3, 4. 

/Matt. vi. 9. After this manner, pray ye.— Luke xi. 2.— When ye 
pray, say, Our Father, etc. 

a Matt. vi. 9. 



252 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

we pray, to draw near to God with confidence of his fa- 
therly goodness, and our interest therein ; h with reverence, 
and all other childlike dispositions/ heavenly affections/ 
and due apprehensions of his sovereign power, majesty, and 
gracious condescension : k as also to pray with and for others. 1 

Q. 190. What do we pray for in the first petition •? 

A. In the first petition, (which is, Hallowed be thy name) m 
acknowledging the utter inability and indisposition that is 
in ourselves and ail men to honor God aright, n we pray, 
that God would by his grace enable and incline us and 
others to know, to acknowledge, and highly to esteem him, 
his titles,^ attributes/ ordinances, word, r works, and what- 

h Luke xi. 13. If ye, then, being evil, know how to give good gifts 
unto your children ; how much more shall your heavenly Father give 
the Holy Spirit to them that ask him ? Rom. viii. 15. 

* Psa. xcv. 6, 7. Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For he is 
our God ; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his 
hand. Isa. lxiv. 9. 

/ Psa. cxxiii. 1. Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in 
the heavens. Lam. iii. 41. Let us lift up our heart with our hands 
unto God in the heavens. 

* Psa. civ. 1, 2. Bless the Lord, O my soul. O Lord my God, thou art 
very great ; thou art clothed with honor and majesty. Isa. lxiii. 15. 
Look down from heaven, and behold from the habitation of thy holi- 
ness and of thy glory : where is thy zeal and thy strength, the sound- 
ing of thy bowels and of thy mercies towards me? are they re- 
strained ? Psa. cxiii. 4, 5, 6. 

1 Acts xii. 5. Peter therefore was kept in prison ; but prayer was 
made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. Zech. viii. 21. 

m Matt. vi. 9. 

» 2 Cor. iii. 5. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any 
thing as of ourselves : but our sufficiency is of God. Psa. li. 15. O 
Lord, open thou my lips ; and my mouth shall show forth thy praise. 

* Psa. lxvii. 2, 3. That thy way may be known upon earth, thy sav- 
ing health among all nations. Let the people praise thee, O God ; let 
all the people praise thee. Psa. lxxii. 19.— Let the whole earth be filled 
with his glory. Eph. iii. 20, 21. 

p Psa. lxxxiii. 18. That men may know that thou, whose name alone 
is JEHOVAH, art the Most High over all the earth. 

9 Psa. cxlv. 6, 7, 8. And men shall speak of the might of thy terri- 
ble acts; and I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly 
utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy right- 
eousness. The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion ; slow to anger, 
and of great mercy. Psa. lxxxvi. 10, 15. 

r 2 Thess. iii. 1. Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 253 

soever he is pleased to make himself known by;* and to 
glorify him in thought, word/ and deed : u that he would 
prevent and remove atheism/ ignorance,"' idolatry , x pro- 
faneness/ and whatsoever is dishonorable to him; z and by 
his overruling providence, direct and dispose of all things 
to his own glory. a 

Q. 191. What do we pray for in the second petition f 
A. In the second petition, (which is, Thy kingdom come) h 
acknowledging ourselves and all mankind to be by nature 
under the dominion of sin and Satan/ we pray that the 

Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you. 
Psa. cvii. 32. Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the peo- 
ple, and praise him in the assembly of the elders. 2 Cor. ii. 14. 

•Psa. viii. and cxlv. throughout. 

' Psa. xix. 14. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of 
my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, Lord, my strength and my 
Redeemer. 

u Phil. i. 11. Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which 
are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. 

* Psa. lxxix. 10. Wherefore should the heathen say, Where is their 
God? Let him be known among the heathen in our sight. Psa. lxvii. 
1-4. 

w Eph. i. 17, 18. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father 
of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in 
the knowledge of him : the eyes of your understanding being en- 
lightened ; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what 
the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. 

■ Psa. xcvii. 7. Confounded be all they that serve graven images, 
that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods. 

v Psa. lxxiv. 18, 22. Remember this, that the enemy hath re- 
proached, O Lord, and that the foolish people have blasphemed thy 
name.— Arise, O God, plead thine own cause ; remember how the fool- 
ish man reproacheth thee daily. 

* Jer. xiv. 21.— For thy name's sake, do not disgrace the throne of 
thy glory. 2 Kings xix. 16. 

* Isa. lxiv. 1, 2. that thou wouldst rend the heavens, that thou 
wouldst come down, that the mountains might flow down at thy pres- 
ence, — to make thy name known to thine adversaries, that the nations 
may tremble at thy presence ! 2 Chron. xx. 6, 10 ,11, 12. 

*> Matt. vi. 10. 

c Eph. ii. 2, 3. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the 
course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, 
the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience : among 
whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of 
our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind ; and were 
by nature the children of wrath, even as others. 



254 THE LAEGER CATECHISM. 

kingdom of sin and Satan may be destroyed/ the gospel 
propagated throughout the world/ the Jews called/ the 
fullness of the Gentiles brought in ; 9 the church furnished 
with all gospel-officers and ordinances, 7 * purged from cor- 
ruption/ countenanced and maintained by the civil magis- 
trate:^ that the ordinances of Christ may be purely dis- 
pensed, and made effectual to the converting of those that 
are yet in their sins, and the confirming, comforting, and 
building up of those that are already converted : k that 
Christ would rule in our hearts here/ and hasten the time 
of his second coming, and our reigning with him for 
ever : m and that he would be pleased so to exercise the 

d Psa. lxviii. 1. Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered : let them 
also that hate him flee before him. Rev. xii. 9. 

« 2 Thess. iii. 1. Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the 
Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you. 
Psa. lxvii. 2. 

/ Rom. x. 1. Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel 
is, that they might be saved. 

c Rom. xi. 25. For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant 
of this mystery— that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until 
the fullness of the Gentiles be come in. Psa. lxvii. 1, etc. 

h Matt, ix.38. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will 
send forth laborers into his harvest. 

' Eph. v. 26, 27. That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the 
washing of water by the word; that he might present it to himself a 
glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing ; but 
that it should be holy and without blemish. Mai. i. 11. 

i 1 Tim. ii. 1, 2. I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, 
prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men ; for 
kings, and for all that are in authority ; that we may lead a quiet and 
peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. Isa. xlix. 23. 

* 2 Cor. iv. 2. Nor handling the word of God deceitfully ; but, by 
manifestation of the truth, commending ourselves to every man's con- 
science in the sight of God. Acts xxvi. 18. To open their eyes, and to 
turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan u»to 
God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among 
them which are sanctified. 2 Thess. ii. 16, 17. Now our Lord Jesus 
Christ himself, and God, even our Father,— comfort your hearts, and 
stablish you in every good word and work. 

1 Eph. iii. 14, 17. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of 
our Lord Jesus Christ,— that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith. 

m Rev. xxii. 20. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I 
come quickly ; Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. 2 Tim. ii. 12. If 
we suffer, we shall also reign with him. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 255 

kingdom of his power in all the world, as may best con- 
duce to these ends. n 

Q. 192. What do we pray for in the third petition f 
A. In the third petition, (which is, Thy will be done in 
earth as it is in heaven) acknowledging that by nature we 
and all men are not only utterly unable and unwilling to 
know and do the will of God/ but prone to rebel against 
his word/ to repine and murmur against his providence/ 
and wholly inclined to do the will of the flesh, and of the 
devil : 8 we pray that God would by his Spirit take away 
from ourselves and others all blindness/ weakness/ indis- 
posedness/ and perverseness of heart/ and by his grace 
make us able and willing to know, do, and submit to his 

n Psa. xlv. 3, 4. Gird thy sword upon thy thigh, O most mighty, with 
thy glory and thy majesty, etc. See letter ( a ), page 253. 

* Matt. vi. 10. 

p 1 Cor. ii. 14. The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit 
of God ; for they are foolishness unto him ; neither can he know them, 
because they are spiritually discerned. Rom. viii. 5, 8. 

? Rom. viii. 7. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God ; for 
it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 

* Matt. xx. 11, 12. And when they had received it, they murmured 
against the goodman of the house, saying, These last have wrought, 
but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have 
borne the burden and heat of the day. Psa. lxxiii. 3.— I was envious 
at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 

8 Tit. iii. 3. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobe- 
dient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, etc. Eph. ii. 2, 3. 
See letter ( c ), page 253. 

* Eph. i. 17, 18. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of 
glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the 
knowledge of him ; the eyes of your understanding being enlight- 
ened; etc. 

" Eph. iii. 16. That he would grant you according to the riches of 
his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner 
man. 

■ Matt. xxvi. 40, 41. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth 
them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me 
one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the 
spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Rom. vii. 24, 25. 

w Ezek. xi. 19. And I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, 
and will give them a heart of flesh. Jer. xxxi. 18. Thou hast chas- 
tised me, and I was chastised, as a bullock unaccustomed to the 
yoke : turn thou me, and I shall be turned ; for thou art the Lord 
my God. 



256 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

will in all things,* with the like humility/ cheei fulness, 2 
faithfulness," diligence, 6 zeal, c sincerity/ and constancy, 6 
as the angels do in heaven. f 

Q. 193. What do vje pray for in the fourth petition ? 

A. In the fourth petition, (which is, Give us this day our 
daily bread,) 9 acknowledging that in Adam, and by our own 
sin, we have forfeited our right to all the outward bless- 
ings of this life, and deserve to be wholly deprived of 
them by God, and to have them cursed to us in the use 
of them ; h and that neither they of themselves are able to 

* Psa. cxix. 35. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments ; 
for therein do I delight. Acts xxi. 14. And when he would not be 
persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done. 1 Sam. 
iii. 18. And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. 
And he said, It is the Lord : let him do what seemeth him good. 

y Psa. cxxiii. 2. Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand 
of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her 
mistress; so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God. Psa. cxxxi. 2. 
Micah vi. 8. 

z Psa. c. 2. Serve the Lord with gladness ; come before his presence 
with singing. 

« Isa. xxxviii. 3. Remember now, O Lord, I beseech thee, how I 
have walked before thee in truth, and with a perfect heart, and have 
done that which is good in thy sight. Eph. vi. 6. Doing the will of 
God from the heart. 

b Psa. cxix. 4. 

« Rom. xii. 11. Not slothful in business ; fervent in spirit ; serving 
the Lord. 

d 2 Cor. i. 12. Our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, 
that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by 
the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world. 

" Psa. cxix. 112. I have inclined my heart to perform thy statutes 
always, even unto the end. Rom. ii. 7. To them who by patient con- 
tinuance in well-doing, seek for glory, and honor, and immortality ; 
eternal life. 

/Psa. ciii. 20, 21, 22. Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in 
strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of 
his word. Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts ; ye ministers of his, that 
do his pleasure. — Bless the Lord, my soul. Dan. vii. 10. — Thousand 
thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand 
stood before him. 

o Matt. vi. 11. 

h Gen. iii. 17. And unto Adam he said, — Cursed is the ground for 
thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life. Lam. 
iii. 22. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because 
his compassions fail not. Deut. xxviii. 15, to the end. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 257 

sustain us,' nor we to merit/' or by our own industry to 
procure them;* but prone to desire/ get,™ and use tbem 
unlawfully : n we pray for ourselves and others, that both 
they and we, waiting upon the providence of God from 
day to day in the use of lawful means, may of his free 
gift, and as to his fatherly wisdom shall seem best, enjoy 
a competent portion of them, and have the same contin- 
ued and blessed unto us in our holy and comfortable use 
of them, p and contentment in them ; q and be kept from 
all things that are contrary to our temporal support and 
comfort/ 

Q. 194. What do we pray for in the fifth petition f 
A. In the fifth petition, (which is, Forgive us our debts, as 
we forgive our debtors) s acknowledging that we and all 

* Deut. viii. 3. And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, 
and fed thee with manna, — that he might make thee know that man 
doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of 
the mouth of the Lord doth man live. 

J Gen. xxxii. 10. I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, 
and of all the truth, which thou hast showed unto thy servant. 

* Deut. viii. 18. But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God ; for it is 
he that giveth thee power to get wealth. Prov. x. 22. 

1 Luke xii. 15. Take heed, and beware of covetousness. Jer. vi. 13. 

m Hos. xii. 7. He is a merchant, the balances of deceit are in his 
hand : he loveth to oppress. 

n James iv. 3. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye 
may consume it upon your lusts. 

Gen. xxviii. 20, 21. And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be 
with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me 
bread to eat, and raiment to put on,— then shall the Lord be my God. 
James iv. 13, 15. Go to now, ye that say, To-day, or to-morrow, we will 
go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and 
get gain;— for that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and 
do this, or that. Psa. xc. 17. And let the beauty of the Lord our God 
be upon us : and establish thou the work of our hands upon us ; yea, 
the work of our hands establish thou it. Psa. cxliv. 12 to 15. 

p 1 Tim. iv. 4, 5. Every creature of God is good, and nothing to be 
refused, if it be received with thanksgiving ; for it is sanctified by the 
word of God and prayer. Prov. x. 22. 

9 1 Tim. vi. 6, 8. Godliness with contentment is great gain.— And 
having food and raiment, let us be therewith content. 

r Prov. xxx. 8, 9. Remove far from me vanity and lies— feed me 
with food convenient for me : lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, 
Who is the Lord ? or lest I be poor, and steal, etc. 

s Matt. vi. 12. 

17 



258 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

others are guilty both of original and actual sin, and 
thereby become debtors to the justice of God ; and that 
neither we nor any other creature can make the least sat- 
isfaction for that debt : ■ we pray for ourselves and others, 
that God of his free grace would, through the obedience 
and satisfaction of Christ apprehended and applied by 
faith, acquit us both from the guilt and punishment of 
sin, M accept us in his Beloved/ continue his favor and 
grace to us," pardon our daily failings/ and fill us with 
peace and joy, in giving us daily more and more assurance 
of forgiveness ; y which we are the rather emboldened to 
ask, and encouraged to expect, when we have this testi- 
mony in ourselves, that we from the heart forgive others 
their offences.* 

Q. 195. What do we pray for in the sixth petition ? 

A. In the sixth petition, (which is, And lead us not into 

* Matt, xviii. 24. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought 
unto him which owed him ten thousand talents. Rom. v. 19.— By one 
man's disobedience many were made sinners. Rom. iii. 9 to 19.— We 
have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under 
sin — that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become 
guilty before God. Psa. cxxx. 3. If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniq- 
uities, O Lord, who shall stand ? Micah vi. 6, 7. 

* Rom. v. 19. By the obedience of one shall many be made right- 
eous. Rom. iii. 24, 25. Being justified freely by his grace, through 
the redemption that is in Christ Jesus ; whom God hath set forth to be 
a propitiation, through faith in his blood, to declare his righteous- 
ness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance 
of God. Acts xiii. 39. 

» Eph. i. 6. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath 
made us accepted in the Beloved. 

w 2 Pet. i. 2. Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the 
knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord. 

* Hos. xiv. 2. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord : say unto 
him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously. Psa. cxliii. 2. 
—Enter not into judgment with thy servant ; for in thy sight shall no 
man living be justified. Psa. cxxx. 3. 

y Rom. xv. 13. Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace 
in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the 
Holy Ghost. Rom. v. 1, 2— Psa. li. 7 to 12. 

1 Luke xi. 4. And forgive us our sins : for we also forgive every one 
that is indebted to us. Matt, xviii. 35. So likewise shall my heavenly 
Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one 
his brother their trespasses. Matt. vi. 14, 15. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 259 

temptation, but deliver us from evil) a acknowledging that the 
most wise, righteous, and gracious God, for divers holy and 
just ends, may so order things that we may be assaulted, 
foiled, and for a time led captive by temptations; h that 
Satan, c the world/ and the flesh, are ready powerfully to 
draw us aside and ensnare us ; e and that we, even after 
the pardon of our sins, by reason of our corruption/ 
weakness, and want of watchfulness/ are not only subject 
to be tempted, and forward to expose ourselves unto 
temptations;* but also of ourselves unable and unwilling 
to resist them, to recover out of them, and to improve 
them;' and worthy to be left under the power of them m J 
we pray, that God would so overrule the world and all in 

« Matt. vi. 13. 

b 2 Chron. xxxii. 31. God left him, to try him, that he might know 
all that was in his heart. Job ii. 6. And the Lord said unto Satan, 
Behold, he is in thine hand ; but save his life. 

• 1 Pet. v. 8. Be sober, be vigilant ; because your adversary the devil, 
as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. Job 
ii. 2. 

d Luke xxi. 34. And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your 
hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of 
this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. Mark iv. 19. 

" James i. 14. Every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his 
own lust, and enticed. 

/ Gal. v. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit 
against the flesh : and these are contrary the one to the other ; so that 
ye cannot do the things that ye would. Rom. vii. 18.— In me (that is, 
in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing : for to will is present with me ; 
but how to perform that which is good I find not. 

9 Matt. xxvi. 41. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into tempta- 
tion: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. 

h Eccl. ix. 12. Man also knoweth not his time : as the fishes that are 
taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare ; so 
are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly 
upon them. 1 Tim. vi. 9. They that will be rich, fall into temptation, 
and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts. Prov. vii. 22. 

» Eph. vi. 11, 12. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be 
able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against 
flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the 
rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in 
high places. 1 Chron. xxi. 1, 2, 3, 4. 2 Chron. xvi. 7, 8, 9, 10. 

/ Psa. lxxxi. 11, 12. But my people would not hearken to my voice ; 
and Israel would none of me. So I gave them up unto their own 
hearts' lust ; and they walked in their own counsels. 



260 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

it,* subdue the flesh/ and restrain Satan,™ order all things, 11 
bestow and bless all means of grace, and quicken us to 
watchfulness in the use of them, that we and all his people 
may by his providence be kept from being tempted to sin ; p 
o~, if tempted, that by his Spirit we may be powerfully 
supported and enabled to stand in the hour of temptation ; q 
or, when fallen, raised again and recovered out of it, r and 
have a sanctified use and improvement thereof: s that our 
sanctification and salvation may be perfected/ Satan trod- 



* John xvii. 15. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the 
world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. Rom. viii. 28. 

1 Psa. li. 10. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right 
spirit within me. Psa. cxix. 133.— Let not any iniquity have dominion 
over me. 

m Heb. ii. 18. For in that he himself hath suffered, being tempted, 
he is able to succor them that are tempted. 1 Cor. x. 13. — God is faith- 
ful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able. 2 
Cor. xii. 8. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might 
depart from me. 

n Rom. viii. 28. And we know that all things work together for good 
to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his 
purpose. 

Heb. xiii. 20, 21. Now the God of peace,— make you perfect in every 
good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing 
in his sight, through Jesus Christ. Eph. iv. 11, 12. And he gave some, 
apostles, etc.— for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the 
ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. 

p Matt. xxvi. 41. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation. 
Psa. xix. 13. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins ; let 
them not have dominion over me. 

9 1 Cor. x. 13. God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted 
above that ye are able ; but will with the temptation also make a way 
to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Eph. iii. 14, 15, 16. 

r Psa. li. 12. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation ; and uphold 
me with thy free Spirit. 

• 1 Pet. v. 10. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his 
eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make 
you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. 1 Pet. i. 6, 7. Wherein 
ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heavi- 
ness through manifold temptations ; that the trial of your faith, being 
much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried 
with fire, might be found unto praise, and honor, and glory, at the ap- 
pearing of Jesus Christ. 

< 1 Thess. iii. 13. To the end he may stablish your hearts unblam- 
able in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our 
Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints. 



THE LARGER CATECHISM. 261 

den under our feet, w and we fully freed from sin, tempta- 
tion, and all evil for ever.* 

Q. 196. What doth the conclusion of the Lord's prayer 
teach us? 

A. The conclusion of the Lord's prayer, (which is, For 
thine is the kingdom, and the poiver, and the glory, for ever. 
Amen.) w teacheth us to enforce our petitions with argu- 
ments,* which are to be taken, not from any worthiness in 
ourselves, or in any other creature, but from God : y and 
with our prayers to join praises/ ascribing to God alone 
eternal sovereignty, omnipotency, and glorious excel- 
lency ; a in regard whereof, as he is able and willing to 
help us, 6 so we by faith are emboldened to plead with him 

u Rom. xvi. 20. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your 
feet shortly. 

v 1 Thess. v. 23. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly: 
and I pray God your whole spirit, and soul, and body, be preserved 
blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

™ Matt. vi. 13. 

x Job xxiii. 3, 4. O that I knew where I might find him! that I 
might come even to his seat ! I would order my cause before him, 
and fill my mouth with arguments. Jer. xiv. 20, 21. 

y Dan. ix. 4, 7, 8, 9, 16, 19. And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and 
made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, 
keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them 
that keep his commandments ; — O Lord, righteousness belongeth unto 
thee ; but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day ;— O Lord, to us 
belongeth confusion of face, to our kings, to our princes, and to our 
fathers, because we have sinned against thee. To the Lord our God 
belong mercies and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against 
him: etc. 

z Phil. iv. 6. In every thing by prayer and supplication with 
thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 

« 1 Chron. xxix. 10, 11, 12, 13. And David said, Blessed be thou, Lord 
God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. Thine, O Lord, is the 
greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the maj- 
esty : for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine ; thine is 
the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both 
riches and honor come of thee, and thou reignest over all : and in thine 
hand is power and might : and in thine hand it is to make great, and to 
give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and 
praise thy glorious name. 

h Eph. iii. 20, 21. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abun- 
dantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that 
worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus 



262 THE LARGER CATECHISM. 

that he would, 6 and quietly to rely upon him that he will, 
fulfill our requests.** And to testify our desires and assur- 
ance, we say, Amen. e 

throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. Luke xi. 13. If ye 
then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children ; how 
much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them 
that ask him ? Psa. lxxxiv. 11. 

c Eph. iii. 12. In whom we have boldness and access with confi- 
dence by the faith of him. Heb. x. 19, 20, 21, 22. Having, therefore, 
brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a 
new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us through the 
veil, that is to say, his flesh ; and having an high-priest over the house 
of God ; let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, 
having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies 
washed with pure water. 

d 1 John v. 11. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, 
if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us. Rom. viii. 
32. He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, 
how shall he not with him also freely give us all things ? 

■ 1 Cor. xiv. 16. Else, when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how 
shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen, at thy 
giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest ? 
Rev. xxii. 20, 21. He which testifieth these things, saith, Surely I 
come quickly ; Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our 
Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 



THE 

SHORTER CATECHISM,* 

ADOPTED BY THE 

SYNOD OF NEW YOKK AND PHILADELPHIA, 

IN 1788. 



Q. 1. What is the chief end of man f 

A. Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him 
for ever. 

Q. 2. What rule hath God given to direct us how we may 
glorify and enjoy him ? 

A, The word of God, which is contained in the Script- 
ures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to 
direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him. 

Q. 3. What do the Scriptures principally teach f 

A. The Scriptures principally teach, what man is to be- 
lieve concerning God, and what duty God requires of man. 

Q. 4. What is GOD? 

A, God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable, 
in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, 
and truth. 

Q. 5. Are there more Gods than one ? 

A. There is but one only, the living and true God. 

* The Shorter Catechism is, simply, an abridgment of the Larger ; 
so that the proof of both must be the same. The reader, therefore, 
who desires to see the Scripture authorities for any doctrine taught in 
this catechism, will turn to that doctrine in the Larger Catechism, 
which may very easily be done, and there he will find the necessary 
texts fully referred to, or inserted. It was judged unnecessary to 
print the very same texts twice over. 

263 



264 THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 

Q. 6. How many persons are there in the Godhead? 

A. There are three persons in the Godhead; the Fa- 
ther, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; and these three 
are one God, the same in substance, equal in power 
and glory. 

Q. 7. What are the decrees of God f 

A. The decrees of God are, his eternal purpose, accord- 
ing to the counsel of his will, whereby, for his own glory, 
he hath fore-ordained whatsoever comes to pass. 

Q. 8. How doth God execute his decrees ? 

A. God executeth his decrees in the works of creation 
and providence. 

Q. 9. WJiat is the work of creation ? 

A. The work of creation is, God's making all things of 
nothing, by the word of his power, in the space of six 
days, and all very good. 

Q. 10. How did God create man f 

A. God created man male and female, after his own 
image, in knowledge, righteousness, and holiness, with do- 
minion over the creatures. 

Q. 11. What are God's works of providence ? 

A. God's works of providence are, his most holy, wise, 
and powerful preserving and governing all his creatures, 
and all their actions. 

Q. 12. What special act of providence did God exercise 
towards man, in the estate wherein he was created? 

A. When God had created man, he entered into a cove- 
nant of life with him, upon condition of perfect obedi- 
ence; forbidding him to eat of the tree of the knowledge 
of good and evil, upon pain of death. 

Q. 13. Did our first parents continue in the estate wherein 
they were created ? 

A. Our first parents, being left to the freedom of their 
own will, fell from the estate wherein they were created, 
by sinning against God. 

Q. 14. What is sin ? 

A. Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression 
of, the law of God. 



THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 265 

Q. 15. What was the sin whereby our first parents fell from 
the estate wherein they were created f 

A. The sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate 
wherein they were created, was their eating the forbidden 
fruit. 

Q. 16. Did all mankind fall in Adam's first transgression f 

A. The covenant being made with Adam, not only for 
himself, but for his posterity, all mankind, descending 
from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell 
with him in his first transgression. 

Q. 17. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind? 

A. The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and 
misery. 

Q. 18. Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate where- 
into man fell '? 

A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, con- 
sists in, the guilt of Adam's first sin, the want of original 
righteousness, and the corruption of his whole nature, 
which is commonly called original sin ; together with all 
actual transgressions which proceed from it. 

Q. 19. What is the misery of that estate whereinto man 
fell? 

A. All mankind, by their fall, lost communion with 
God, are under his wrath and curse, and so made liable to 
all the miseries of this life, to death itself, and to the pains 
of hell for ever. 

Q. 20. Did God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of 
sin and misery ? 

A. God having out of his mere good pleasure, from all 
eternity, elected some to everlasting life, did enter into a 
covenant of grace, to deliver them out of the estate of sin 
and misery, and to bring them into an estate of salvation 
by a Redeemer. 

Q. 21. Who is the Redeemer of God's elect ? 

A. The only Eedeemer of God's elect is the Lord Jesus 
Christ, who, being the eternal Son of God, became man, 
and so was, and continueth to be, God and man, in two 
distinct natures, and one person, for ever. 



266 THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 

Q. 22. How did Christ, being the Son of God, become 
man ? 

A. Christ, the Son of God, became man, by taking to 
himself a true body and a reasonable soul, being conceived 
by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the womb of the Vir- 
gin Mary, and born of her, yet without sin. 

Q. 23. What offices doth Christ execute as our Re- 
deemer f 

A. Christ, as our Eedeemer, executeth the offices of a 
prophet, of a priest, and of a king, both in his estate of 
humiliation and exaltation. 

Q. 24. How doth Christ execute the office of a prophet f 

A. Christ executeth the office of a prophet, in reveal- 
ing to us, by his word and Spirit, the will of God for our 
salvation. 

Q. 25. How doth Christ execute the office of a priest f 

A. Christ executeth the office of a priest, in his once 
offering up of himself a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice, 
and reconcile us to God, and in making continual inter- 
cession for us. 

Q. 26. How doth Christ execute the office of a king f 

A, Christ executeth the office of a king, in subduing us 
to himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining 
and conquering all his and our enemies. 

Q. 27. Wherein did Christ's humiliation consist f 

A. Christ's humiliation consisted in his being born, and 
that in a low condition, made under the law, undergoing 
the miseries of this life, the wrath of God, and the cursed 
death of the cross ; in being buried, and continuing under 
the power of death for a time. 

Q. 28. Wherein consisteth Christ's exaltation t 

A. Christ's exaltation consisteth in his rising again from 
the dead on the third day, in ascending up into heaven, in 
sitting at the right-hand of God the Father, and in com- 
ing to judge the world at the last day. 

Q. 29. How are we made partakers of the redemption pur- 
chased by Christ f 

A, We are made partakers of the redemption purchased 



THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 267 

by Christ, by the effectual application of it to us by his 
Holy Spirit. 

Q. 30. How doth the Spirit apply to us the redemption pur- 
chased by Christ f 

A. The Spirit applieth to us the redemption purchased 
by Christ, by working faith in us, and thereby uniting us 
to Christ in our effectual calling. 

Q. 31. What is effectual calling ? 

A. Effectual calling is the work of God's Spirit, where- 
by, convincing us of our sin and misery, enlightening our 
minds in the knowledge of Christ, and renewing our wills, 
he doth persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, 
freely offered to us in the gospel. 

Q. 32. What benefits do they that are effectually called par- 
take of in this life f 

A. They that are effectually called do in this life partake 
of justification, adoption, sanctification, and the several 
benefits which, in this life, do either accompany or flow 
from them. 

Q. 33. What is justification f 

A. Justification is an act of God's free grace, wherein 
he pardoneth all our sins, and accepteth us as righteous 
in his sight, only for the righteousness of Christ imputed 
to us, and received by faith alone. 

Q. 34. What is adoption ? 

A. Adoption is an act of God's free grace, whereby we 
are received into the number, and have a right to all the 
privileges, of the sons of God. 

Q. 35. What is sanctification ? 

A. Sanctification is the work of God's free grace, where- 
by we are renewed in the whole man after the image of 
God, and are enabled more and more to die unto sin, and 
live unto righteousness. 

Q. 36. What are the benefits which in this life do accom- 
pany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctifica- 
tion ? 

A. The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow 
from justification, adoption, and sanctification, are, assur- 



268 THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 

ance of God's love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy 
Ghost, increase of grace, and perseverance therein to the 
end. 

Q. 37. What benefit do believers receive from Christ at 
their death? 

A. The souls of believers are at their death made per- 
fect in holiness, and do immediately pass into glory; and 
their bodies, being still' united to Christ, do rest in their 
graves till the resurrection. 

Q. 38. What benefits do believers receive from Christ at the 
resurrection f 

A. At the resurrection, believers, being raised up in 
glory, shall be openly acknowledged and acquitted in the 
day of judgment, and made perfectly blessed in the full 
enjoying of God to all eternity, 

Q. 39. What is the duty which God requireth of man ? 

A. The duty which God requireth of man is obedience 
to his revealed will. 

Q. 40. What did God at first reveal to man for the rule of 
his obedience f 

A. The rule which God at first revealed to man for his 
obedience, was the moral law. 

Q. 41. Wherein is the moral law summarily comprehended f 

A. The moral law is summarily comprehended in the 
ten commandments. 

Q. 42. What is the sum of the ten commandments f 

A. The sum of the ten commandments is, to love the 
Lord our God, with all our heart, with all our soul, with 
all our strength, and with all our mind ; and our neighbor 
as ourselves. 

Q. 43. What is the preface to the ten commandments ? 

A. The preface to the ten commandments is in these 
words, lam the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out 
of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 

Q. 44. What doth the preface to the ten commandments 
teach usf 

A. The preface to the ten commandments teacheth 
us, that because God is the Lord, and our God, and Re- 



THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 269 

deemer, therefore we are bound to keep all his command- 
ments. 

Q. 45. Which is the first commandment f 

A. The first commandment is, Thou shalt have no other 
gods before me. 

Q. 46. What is required in the first commandment? 

A. The first commandment requireth us to know and 
acknowledge God to be the only true God, and our God ; 
and to worship and glorify him accordingly. 

Q. 47. What is forbidden in the first commandment? 

A. The first commandment forbiddeth the denying, or 
not worshiping and glorifying, the true God as God, and 
our God ; and the giving that worship and glory to any 
other, which is due to him alone. 

Q. 48. What are we especially taught by these words, " be- 
fore me," in the first commandment? 

A. These words, " before me/' in the first commandment, 
teach us, that God, who seeth all things, taketh notice of, and 
is much displeased with, the sin of having any other God. 

Q. 49. Which is the second commandment ? 

A. The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make 
unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that 
is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in 
the water under the earth : thou shalt not bow down thyself 
to them, nor serve them ; for I the Lord thy God am a jeal- 
ous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children 
unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; 
and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and 
keep my commandments. 

Q. 50. What is required in the second commandment ? 

A. The second commandment requireth the receiving, 
observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious 
worship and ordinances as God hath appointed in his 
word. 

Q. 51. What is forbidden in the second commandment? 

A. The second commandment forbiddeth the worshiping 
of God by images, or any other way not appointed in his 
word. 



270 THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 

Q. 52. What are the reasons annexed to the second com' 
mandment f 

A. The reasons annexed to the second commandment 
are, God's sovereignty over us, his propriety in us, and the 
zeal he hath to his own worship. 

Q. 53. Which is the third commandment ? 

A. The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the 
name of the Lord thy God in vain : for the Lord will not 
hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain, 

Q. 54. What is required in the third commandment f 

A. The third commandment requireth the holy and rev- 
erent use of God's names, titles, attributes, ordinances, 
word, and works. 

Q. bb. What is forbidden in the third commandment ? 

A. The third commandment forbiddeth all profaning 
or abusing of any thing whereby God maketh himself 
known. 

Q. 56. What is the reason annexed to the third command- 
ment ? 

A. The reason annexed to the third commandment is, 
that however the breakers of this commandment may es- 
cape punishment from men, yet the Lord our God will not 
suffer them to escape his righteous judgment. 

Q. 57. Which is the fourth commandment f 

A. The fourth commandment is, Remember the Sabbath- 
day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all 
thy work : but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy 
God : in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor 
thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy 
cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates : for in six 
days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in 
them is, and rested the seventh day : wherefore the Lord blessed 
the Sabbath-day, and hallowed it. 

Q. 58. What is required in the fourth commandment? 

A. The fourth commandment requireth the keeping holy 
to God such set times as he hath appointed in his word ; 
expressly one whole day in seven, to be a holy Sabbath to 
himself. 



THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 271 

Q. 59. Which day of the seven hath God appointed to be 
the weekly Sabbath ? 

A. From the beginning of the world to the resurrection 
of Christ, God appointed the seventh day of the week to 
be the weekly Sabbath; and the first day of the week, 
ever since, to continue to the end of the world, which is 
the Christian Sabbath. 

Q. 60. How is the Sabbath to be sanctified ? 

A. The Sabbath is to be sanctified by a holy resting all 
that day, even from such worldly employments and recre- 
ations as are lawful on other days ; and spending the whole 
time in the public and private exercises of God's worship, 
except so much as is to be taken up in the works of neces- 
sity and mercy. 

Q. 61. What is forbidden in the fourth commandment? 

A. The fourth commandment forbiddeth the omission, 
or careless performance, of the duties required, and the 
profaning the day by idleness, or doing that which is in 
itself sinful, or by unnecessary thoughts, words, or works, 
about our worldly employments or recreations. 

Q. 62. What are the reasons annexed to the fourth com- 
mandmeni ? 

A. The reasons annexed to the fourth commandment 
are, God's allowing us six days of the week for our own 
employments, his challenging a special propriety in the 
seventh, his own example, and his blessing the Sabbath- 
day. 

Q. 63. Which is the fifth commandment f 

A. The fifth commandment is, Honor thy father and thy 
mother ; that thy days may be long upon the land which the 
Lord thy God giveth thee. 

Q. 64. What is required in the fifth commandment f 

A. The fifth commandment requireth the preserving the 
honor, and performing the duties, belonging to every one 
in their several places and relations, as superiors, inferiors, 
or equals. 

Q. 6o. What is forbidden in the fifth commandment f 

A. The fifth commandment forbiddeth the neglecting of, 



272 THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 

or doing any thing against, the honor and duty which be- 
longeth to every one in their several places and relations. 

Q. 66. What is the reason annexed to the fifth command- 
ment ? 

A. The reason annexed to the fifth commandment is, a 
promise of long life and prosperity (as far as it shall serve 
for God's glory, and their own good) to all such as keep 
this commandment. 

Q. 67. Which is the sixth commandment? 

A. The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill. 

Q. 68. What is required in the sixth commandment f 

A. The sixth commandment requireth all lawful endeav- 
ors to preserve our own life, and the life of others. 

Q. 69. What is forbidden in the sixth commandment f 

A. The sixth commandment forbiddeth the taking away 
of our own life, or the life of our neighbor unjustly, or 
whatsoever tendeth thereunto. 

Q. 70. Which is the seventh commandment ? 

A. The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit 
adultery. 

Q. 71. What is required in the seventh commandment f 

A. The seventh commandment requireth the preserva- 
tion of our own and our neighbor's chastity, in heart, 
speech, and behavior. 

Q. 72. What is forbidden in the seventh commandment f 

A. The seventh commandment forbiddeth all unchaste 
thoughts, words, and actions. 

Q. 73. Which is the eighth commandment f 

A. The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal. 

Q. 74. What is required in the eighth commandment ? 

A. The eighth commandment requireth the lawful pro- 
curing and furthering the wealth and outward estate of 
ourselves and others. 

Q. 75. What is forbidden in the eighth commandment f 

A. The eighth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever 
doth, or may, unjustly hinder our own, or our neigh- 
bor's, wealth or outward estate. 

Q. 76. Which is the ninth commandment ? 



THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 273 

A. The ninth commandment is, Thou shalt not bear false 
witness against thy neighbor. 

Q. 77. What is required in the ninth commandment ? 

A. The ninth commandment requireth the maintaining 
and promoting of truth between man and man, and of our 
own and our neighbor's good name, especially in witness- 
bearing. 

Q. 78. What is forbidden in the ninth commandment ? 

A. The ninth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever is 
prejudicial to truth, or injurious to our own or our neigh- 
bor's good name. 

Q. 79. Which is the tenth commandment ? 

A. The tenth commandment is, Thou shalt not covet thy 
neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor 
his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, 
nor any thing thai is thy neighbor's. 

Q. 80. What is required in the tenth commandment ? 

A. The tenth commandment requireth full contentment 
rfrith our own condition, with a right and charitable frame 
jf spirit toward our neighbor, and all that is his. 

Q. 81. What is forbidden in the tenth commandment t 

A. The tenth commandment forbiddeth all discontent- 
ment with our own estate, envying or grieving at the good 
of our neighbor, and all inordinate motions and affections 
to anything that is his. 

Q. 82. Is any man able perfectly to keep the command- 
ments of God? 

A. No mere man, since the fall, is able, in this life, per- 
fectly to keep the commandments of God ; but doth daily 
break them, in thought, word, and deed. 

Q. 83. Are all transgressions of the law equally heinous f 

A. Some sins in themselves, and by reason of several ag- 
gravations, are more heinous in the sight of God than others. 

Q. 84. What doth every sin deserve ? 

A. Every sin deserveth God's wrath and curse, both in 
this life, and that which is to come. 

Q. 85. What doth God require of us, that we may escape 
his wrath and curse, due to us for sin t 
18 



274 THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 

A, To escape the wrath and curse of God, due to us for 
sin, God requireth of us faith in Jesus Christ, repentance 
unto life, with the diligent use of all the outward means 
whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of re- 
demption. 

Q. 86. WJiat is faith in Jesus Christ? 

A. Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace, whereby we 
receive and rest upon him alone for salvation, as he is 
offered to us in the gospel. 

Q. 87. What is repentance unto life f 

A. Repentance unto life is a saving grace, whereby a 
sinner, out of a true sense of his sin, and apprehension of 
the mercy of God in Christ, doth, with grief and hatred 
of his sin, turn from it unto God, with full purpose of, and 
endeavor after, new obedience. 

Q. 88. What are the outward and ordinary means whereby 
Christ communicateth to us the benefits of redemption ? 

A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ 
communicateth to us the benefits of redemption are, his 
ordinances, especially the word, sacraments, and prayer ; 
all which are made effectual to the elect for salvation. 

Q. 89. How is the word made effectual to salvation ? 

A. The Spirit of God maketh the reading, but especially 
the preaching, of the word, an effectual means of con- 
vincing and converting sinners, and of building them 
up in holiness and comfort through faith unto salva- 
tion. 

Q. 90. How is the word to be read and heard, that it may 
become effectual to salvation f 

A, That the word may become effectual to salvation, we 
must attend thereunto with diligence, preparation, and 
prayer; receive it with faith and love, lay it up in our 
hearts, and practice it in our lives. 

Q. 91. How do the sacraments become effectual means of 
salvation f 

A. The sacraments become effectual means of salva- 
tion, not from any virtue in them, or in him that doth 
administer them ; but only by the blessing of Christ, 



THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 275 

and the working of his Spirit in them that by faith re- 
ceive them. 

Q. 92. What is a sacrament f 

A. A sacrament is a holy ordinance instituted by Christ ; 
wherein, by sensible signs, Christ and the benefits of the 
new covenant are represented, sealed, and applied to be- 
lievers. 

Q. 93. Which are the sacraments of the New Testament f 

A. The sacraments of the New Testament are, baptism, 
and the Lord's supper. 

Q. 94. What is baptism ? 

A. Baptism is a sacrament, wherein the washing with 
water, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of 
the Holy Ghost, doth signify and seal our ingrafting into 
Christ, and partaking of the benefits of the covenant of 
grace, and our engagement to be the Lord's. 

Q. 95. To whom is baptism to be administered? 

A. Baptism is not to be administered to any that are out 
of the visible church, till they profess their faith in Christ, 
and obedience to him ; but the infants of such as are mem- 
bers of the visible church, are to be baptized. 

Q. 96. What is the Lord's supper f 

A. The Lord's supper is a sacrament, wherein, by giv- 
ing and receiving bread and wine, according to Christ's 
appointment, his death is showed forth ; and the worthy 
receivers are, not after a corporal and carnal manner, but 
by faith, made partakers of his body and blood, with all 
his benefits, to their spiritual nourishment and growth in 
grace. 

Q. 97. What is required to the worthy receiving of the 
LoroVs supper f 

A. It is required of them that would worthily partake 
of the Lord's supper, that they examine themselves, of 
their knowledge to discern the Lord's body, of their faith 
to feed upon him, of their repentance, love, and new obe- 
dience ; lest coming unworthily, they eat and drink judg- 
ment to themselves. 

Q. 98. What is prayer ? 



276 THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 

A. Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God, for 
things agreeable to his will, in the name of Christ, with 
confession of our sins, and thankful acknowledgment of 
his mercies. 

Q. 99. What rule hath God given for our direction in 
prayer f 

A. The whole word of God is of use to direct us in 
prayer ; but the special rule of direction is that form of 
prayer which Christ taught his disciples, commonly 
called The LoroVs prayer. 

Q. 100. What doth the preface of the Lord's prayer teach 
usf 

A. The preface of the Lord's prayer, which is, " Our 
Father which art in heaven" teach eth us to draw near to 
God with all holy reverence and confidence, as children 
to a father, able and ready to help us ; and that we should 
pray with and for others. 

Q. 101. Wliat do we pray for in the first petition ? 

A. In the first petition, which is, " Hallowed be thy 
name" we pray, that God would enable us, and others, to 
glorify him in all that whereby he maketh himself known, 
and that he would dispose all things to his own glory. 

Q. 102. What do we pray for in the second petition f 

A. In the second petition, which is, " Thy kingdom 
come" we pray, that Satan's kingdom may be destroyed, 
and that the kingdom of grace may be advanced, our- 
selves and others brought into it, and kept in it, and that 
the kingdom of glory may be hastened. 

Q. 103. What do we pray for in the third petition f 

A. In the third petition, which is, u Thy will be done in 
earth as it is in heaven" we pray, that God, by his grace, 
would make us able and willing to know, obey, and sub- 
mit to his will in all things, as the angels do in heaven. 

Q. 104. What do we pray for in the fourth petition ? 

A. In the fourth petition, which is, "Give us this day 
our daily bread" we pray, that of God's free gift, we may 
receive a competent portion of the good things of this 
life, and enjoy his blessing with them. 



THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 277 

Q. 105. What do we pray for in the fifth petition f 
A. In the fifth petition, which is, "And forgive us our 
debts, as we forgive our debtors" we pray, that God, for 
Christ's sake, would freely pardon a]l our sins ; which we 
are the rather encouraged to ask, because by his grace we 
are enabled from the heart to forgive others. 

Q. 106. What do we pray for in the sixth petition f 
A. In the sixth petition, which is, "And lead us not 
into temptation, but deliver us from evil," we pray, that God 
would either keep us from being tempted to sin, or sup- 
port and deliver us when we are tempted. 

Q. 107. What doth the conclusion of the Lord's prayer 
teach us t 

A. The conclusion of the Lord's prayer, which is, "For 
thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for 
ever. Amen," teacheth us to take our encouragement in 
prayer from God only, and in our prayers to praise him, 
ascribing kingdom, power, and glory to him ; and in testi- 
mony of our desire and assurance to be heard, we say, 
Amen. 



THE TEN" COMMANDMENTS. 

EXODUS XX. 

God spake all these words, saying, I am the Lord thy 
God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, 
out of the house of bondage. 

I. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. 

II. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, 
or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or 
that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under 
the earth : thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor 
serve them: for I, the Lord thy God, am a jealous God, 
visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto 
the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; 
and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, 
and keep my commandments. 



278 THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 

III. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God 
in vain : for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that 
taketh his name in vain. 

IV. Eemember the Sabbath-day, to keep it holy. Six 
days shalt thou labor, aDd do all thy work: but the 
seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God ; in it 
thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy 
daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy 
cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates : for in six 
days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all 
that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore 
the Lord blessed the Sabbath-day and hallowed it. 

V. Honor thy father and thy mother; that thy days 
may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God 
giveth thee. 

VI. Thou shalt not kill. 

VII. Thou shalt not commit adultery. 

VIII. Thou shalt not steal. 

IX. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy 
neighbor. 

X. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou 
shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man-servant, 
nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any 
thing that is thy neighbor's. 



THE LORD'S PRAYER 

MATTHEW VI. 

Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. 
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is 
in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And for- 
give us our debts as we forgive our debtors. And lead us 
not into temptation, but deliver us from evil : for thine is 
the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. 
Amen. 



THE SHORTER CATECHISM. 279 

THE CREED. 

I believe in God the Father almighty, maker of 
heaven and earth : and in Jesus Christ his only Son, our 
Lord ; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the 
Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, 
dead, and buried ; he descended into hell ; * the third 
day he rose again from the dead ; he ascended into heaven, 
and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father almighty ; 
from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the 
dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic 
church ; the communion of saints ; the forgiveness of 
sins ; the resurrection of the body ; and the life everlast- 
ing. Amen. 

* i. e. Continued in the state of the dead, and under the power of 
death, until the third day. 
[See the answer to the 50th question in the Larger Catechism, p. 144.] 



END OF THE CATECHISM. 



THE 

FORM OF GOVERNMENT 

AND 

FORMS OF PROCESS 



PKESBYTERIAN CHTJECH IN THE UNITED STATES OF 
AMERICA. 



AS AMENDED, 1805-1806. 



BOOK I. 

OF GOVEKNMENT. 



CHAPTER I. 

PRELIMINARY PRINCIPLES* 

The Presbyterian Church in the United States of 
America, in presenting to the Christian public the system 
of union, and the form of government and discipline 
which they have adopted, have thought proper to state, 
by way of introduction, a few of the general principles by 
which they have been governed in the formation of the 
plan. This, it is hoped, will, in some measure, prevent 
those rash misconstructions, and uncandid reflections, 

* Note. — This introductory chapter, with the exception of the first 
sentence, was first drawn up by the Synod of New York and Philadel- 
phia, and prefixed to the Form of Government, etc., as published by 
that body in 1788. In that year, after arranging the plan on which 
the Presbyterian Church is now governed, the Synod was divided 
into four Synods, and gave place to the General Assembly which 
met for the first time in 1789. 

281 



282 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

which usually proceed from an imperfect view of any 

subject; as well as make the several parts of the system 

plain, and the whole perspicuous and fully understood. 

They are unanimously of opinion : 

I. That " God alone is Lord of the conscience; and 
" hath left it free from the doctrine and commandments of 
" men, which are in any thing contrary to his word, 01 
" beside it in matters of faith or worship :" Therefore 
they consider the rights of private judgment, in all mat- 
ters that respect religion, as universal and unalienable: 
they do not even wish to see any religious constitution 
aided by the civil power, further than may be necessary 
for protection and security, and, at the same time, be 
equal and common to all others. 

II. That, in perfect consistency with the above princi- 
ple of common right, every Christian church, or union or 
association of particular churches, is entitled to declare 
the terms of admission into its communion, and the qualifi- 
cations of its ministers and members, as well as the whole 
system of its internal government which Christ hath ap- 
pointed : that, in the exercise of this right they may, not- 
withstanding, err, in making the terms of communion 
either too lax or too narrow ; yet, even in this case, they 
do not infringe upon the liberty, or the rights of others, 
but only make an improper use of their own: 

III. That our blessed Saviour, for the edification of the 
visible church, which is his body, hath appointed officers, 
not only to preach the gospel and administer the sacra- 
ments ; but also to exercise discipline, for the preserva- 
tion both of truth and duty ; and, that it is incumbent 
upon these officers, and upon the whole church, in whose 
name they act, to censure or cast out the erroneous and 
scandalous ; observing, in all cases, the rules contained in 
the word of God. 

IV. That truth is in order to goodness ; and the great 
touchstone of truth, its tendency to promote holiness; 
according to our Saviour's rule, "by their fruits ye shall 
know them." And that no opinion can be either more 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 283 

pernicious or more absurd, than that which brings truth 
and falsehood upon a level, and represents it as of no 
consequence what a man's opinions are. On the contrary, 
they are persuaded that there is an inseparable connection 
between faith and practice, truth and duty. Otherwise it 
vvould be of no consequence either to discover truth, or to 
embrace it. 

V. That while under the conviction of the above prin- 
ciple, they think it necessary to make effectual provision, 
that all who are admitted as teachers, be sound in the faith ; 
they also believe that there are truths and forms, with 
respect to which men of good characters and principles 
may differ. And in all these they think it the duty both 
of private Christians and societies, to exercise mutual 
forbearance towards each other. 

VI. That though the character, qualifications, and 
authority of church officers, are laid down in the holy 
Scriptures, as well as the proper method of their investi- 
ture and institution ; yet the election of the persons to the 
exercise of this authority, in any particular society, is in 
that society. 

VII. That all church power, whether exercised by the 
body in general, or in the way of representation by dele- 
gated authority, is only ministerial and declarative ; that 
is to say, that the Holy Scriptures are the only rule of 
faith and manners; that no church judicatory ought to 
pretend to make laws, to bind the conscience in virtue of 
their own authority; and that all their decisions should 
be founded upon the revealed will of God. Now though 
it will easily be admitted, that all synods and councils may 
err, through the frailty inseparable from humanity; yet 
there is much greater danger from the usurped claim of 
making laws, than from the right of judging upon laws 
already made, and common to all who profess the gospel ; 
although this right, as necessity requires in the present 
state, be lodged with fallible men. 

VIII. Lastly. That, if the preceding scriptural and 
rational principles be steadfastly adhered to, the vigor 



284 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

and strictness of its discipline will contribute to the glory 
and happiness of any church. Since ecclesiastical disci- 
pline must be purely moral or spiritual in its object, and 
not attended with any civil effects, it can derive no force 
whatever, but from its own justice, the approbation of an 
impartial public, and the countenance and blessing of the 
great Head of the church universal. 



CHAPTER II. 

OF THE CHUECH. 



I. Jesus Christ, who is now exalted far above all 
principality and power/ hath erected, in this world, a 
kingdom, which is his church. 6 

II. The universal church consists of all those persons, 
in every nation, together with their children, who make 
profession of the holy religion of Christ, and of submis- 
sion to his laws. c 

III. As this immense multitude cannot meet together in 
one place, to hold communion, or to worship God, it is 

8 Eph. i. 20, 21. When he raised him from the dead, and set him at 
his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, 
and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, 
not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. Psa. lxviii. 
18. Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive : 
thou hast received gifts for men ; yea, for the rebellious also, that the 
Lord God might dwell among them. 

b Psa. ii. 6. Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. 
Dan. vii. 14. — There was given him dominion, and glory, and a king- 
dom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him ; his 
dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and 
his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. Eph. i. 22, 23. And 
hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over 
all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him that 
filleth all in all. 

c Rev. v. 9. And hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every 
kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. Acts ii. 39. For the 
promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, 
even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 1 Cor. i. 2, compared 
with 2 Cor. ix. 13. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 285 

reasonable, and warranted by Scripture example, that 
they should be divided into many particular churches.^ 
IV. A particular church consists of a number of pro- 
fessing Christians, with their offspring, voluntarily associ- 
ated together, for divine worship and godly living, agree- 
ably to the Holy Scriptures ; e and submitting to a certain 
form of government/ 



CHAPTEE III. 

OF THE OFFICERS OF THE CHUECH. 

I. Our blessed Lord, at first, collected his church out of 
different nations/ and formed it into one body/ by the 

d Gal. i. 21, 22. Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and 
Cilicia : and was unknown by face unto the churches of Judea which 
were in Christ. Rev. i. 4, 20. John to the seven churches which are 
in Asia : Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which 
was, and which is to come : and from the seven spirits w T hich are 
before his throne. — The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest 
in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven 
stars are the angels of the seven churches ; and the seven candlesticks 
which thou sawest are the seven churches. See also Rev. ii. 1. 

• Acts ii. 41, 47. Then they that gladly received his word were bap- 
tized; and the same day there were added unto them about three 
thousand souls. — Praising God, and having favor with all the people. 
And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. 1 
Cor. vii. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, 
and the unbelieving w r ife is sanctified by the husband : else were 
your children unclean ; but now are they holy. Acts ii. 39. Mark x. 
14, compared with Matt. xix. 13, 14, and Luke xviii. 15, 16. 

/ Heb. viii. 5. Who serve unto the example and shadow of heaven- 
ly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to 
make the tabernacle ; for, See (saith he) that thou make all things 
according to the pattern showed to thee in the mount. Gal. vi. 16. 
And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and 
mercy, and upon the Israel of God. 

9 Psa. ii. 8. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine 
inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. 
Rev. vii. 9. After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no 
man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and 
tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with 
white robes, and palms in their hands. 

h 1 Cor. x. 17. For we being many are one bread, and one body : 



286 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

mission of men endued with miraculous gifts which have 
long since ceased.* 

II. The ordinary and perpetual officers in the church, 
are Bishops or Pastors ; J ' the representatives of the people, 
usually styled Ruling Elders ; k and Deacons. 1 



CHAPTER IV. 

OF BISHOPS OR PASTOPS. 

The pastoral office is the first in the church, both for 
dignity and usefulness."* The person who fills this office, 
hath, in Scripture, obtained different names expressive of 
his various duties. As he has the oversight of the flock 
of Christ, he is termed bishop.* n As he feeds them with 
spiritual food, he is termed pastor. As he serves Christ 



for we are all partakers of that one bread. See also Eph. iv. 16. Col. 
i. 18. 

»" Matt. x. 1, 8. And when he had called unto him his twelve disci- 
ples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, 
and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease, etc. 

i 1 Tim. iii. 1. If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a 
good work. Eph. iv. 11, 12. And he gave some, apostles; and some, 
prophets ; and some, evangelists ; and some, pastors and teachers ; for 
the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the 
edifying of the body of Christ. 

* 1 Tim. v. 17. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of 
double honor. 

iPhil. i. 1. To all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, 
with the bishops and deacons. 

m Rom. xi. 13. 

« Acts xx. 28. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the 
flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, 
[bishops] to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with 
his own blood. 

°Jer. iii. 15. And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which 
shall feed you with knowledge and understanding. 1 Pet. v. 2, 3, 4. 

* As the office and character of the gospel minister is particularly 
and fully described in the Holy Scriptures, under the title of bishop ; 
and as this term is peculiarly expressive of his duty as an overseer of 
the flock, it ought not to be rejected. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 287 

in his church, he is termed minister/ As it is his duty to 
be grave and prudent, and an example of the flock, and 
to govern well in the house and kingdom of Christ, he is 
termed presbyter or elder. 2 As he is the messenger of 
God, he is termed the angel of the church/ As he is sent 
to declare the will of God to sinners, and to beseech them 
to be reconciled to God through Christ, he is termed am- 
bassador. 8 And, as he dispenses the manifold grace of 
God, and the ordinances instituted by Christ, he is termed 
steward of the mysteries of God.' 



CHAPTEK V. 

OF RULING ELDERS. 



Ruling elders are properly the representatives of the 
people, chosen by them for the purpose of exercising 
government and discipline, in conjunction with pastors or 
ministers/ This office has been understood, by a great 
part of the Protestant Reformed Churches, to be desig- 



p 1 Cor. iv. 1. Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of 
Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Cor. iii. 6. Who also 
hath made us able ministers of the new testament. 

? 1 Pet. v. 1. The elders which are among you I exhort, who am 
also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a par- 
taker of the glory that shall he revealed. See also Tit. i. 5. 1 Tim. v. 
1, 17, 19. 

r Rev. ii. 1. Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write. Rev. 
i. 20. — The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches. See 
also Rev. iii. 1, 7. Mai. ii. 7. 

» 2 Cor. v. 20. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though 
God did beseech you by us; we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye 
reconciled to God. Eph. vi. 20. 

1 Luke xii. 42. Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom 
his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their por- 
tion of meat in due season ? 1 Cor. iv. 1, 2.— Moreover it is required 
in stewards that a man be found faithful. 

* 1 Tim. v. 17. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of 
double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine. 
Rom. xii. 7, 8. Acts xv. 25. 



288 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

nated in the holy Scriptures, by the title of governments ; 
and of those who rule well, but do not labor in the word 
and doctrine. v 



CHAPTER VI. 

OF DEACONS. 



The Scriptures clearly point out deacons as distinct 
officers in the church,™ whose business it is to take care 
of the poor, and to distribute among them the collections 
which may be raised for their use. x To them also may be 
properly committed the management of the temporal 
affairs of the church.* 



CHAPTER VII. 

OF ORDINANCES IN A PARTICULAR CHURCH. 

The ordinances established by Christ, the head, in a 
particular church, which is regularly constituted with 

• ICor. xii. 28. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles ; 
secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts 
of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. See letter \u), 
p. 287. 

"'Phil. i. 1. ITim. iii. 8 to 15. 

■ Acts vi. 1, 2. And in those days, when the number of the disciples 
was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the 
Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministra- 
tion. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto 
them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, 
and serve tables. 

y Acts vi. 3, 5, 6. Wherefore, brethen, look ye out among you seven 
men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 289 

its proper officers,* are prayer. singing praises, 6 reading. 6 
expounding and preaching the word of God ; d administer- 
ing baptism and the Lord's supper ; e public solemn fast- 
ing and thanksgiving/ catechizing/ making collections 



may appoint over this business. — And the saying pleased the whole 
multitude : and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the 
Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and 
Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch ; whom they set before 
the apostles : and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on 
them. 

2 1 Cor. xiv. 26, 33, 40. Let all things be done unto edifying.— For 
God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of 
the saints. — Let all things be done decently and in order. 

a Acts vi. 4. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and 
to the ministry of the word. 1 Tim. ii. 1. 

b Col. iii. 16. Teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and 
hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the 
Lord. Psa. ix. 11. Eph. v. 19. Also Col. iv. 6. 

c Acts xv. 21. Luke iv. 16, 17. 

d Titus i. 9. Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, 
that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and convince 
the gainsayers. Acts x. 42. — He commanded us to preach unto the 
people. See also Acts xxviii. 23. Luke xxiv. 47. 2 Tim. iv. 2. Acts 
ix. 20. 

e Matt, xxviii. 19, 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, bap- 
tizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost ; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have 
commanded you, etc. And Mark xvi. 15, 16. 1 Cor. xi. 23, 24, 25, 26. 
For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, 
That the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took 
bread: and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, 
eat ; this is my body, which is broken for you : this do in remembrance 
of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had 
supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do 
ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye 
eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till 
he come. Compared with 1 Cor. x. 16. 

/ Luke v. 35. But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be 
taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days. Psa. 1. 
14. Offer unto God thanksgiving : and pay thy vows unto the Most 
High. Phil. iv. 6.— In every thing by prayer and supplication with 
thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. See 1 Tim. 
ii. 1. Psa. xcv. 2. 

o Heb. v. 12. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have 
ueed that one teach you again which be the first principles of the 
oracles of God ; and are become such as have need of milk, and not 
of strong meat. 

19 



290 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

for the poor and other pious purposes ; * exercising disci* 
pline;* and blessing the people/ 



CHAPTEE VIII. 

OF CHURCH GOVERNMENT, AND THE SEVERAL KINDS OF 
JUDICATORIES. 

I. It is absolutely necessary that the government of the 
church be exercised under some certain and definite form.* 
And we hold it to be expedient, and agreeable to Scripture 
and the practice of the primitive Christians, that the church 
be governed by congregational, presbyterial, and synodical 
assemblies. In full consistency with this belief, we em- 
brace, in the spirit of charity, those Christians who differ 
from us, in opinion, or in practice, on these subjects.* 

II. These assemblies ought not to possess any civil juris- 

h 1 Cor. xvi. 1, 2, 3, 4. Now concerning the collection for the saints, as 
I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the 
first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God 
hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. And 
when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will 
I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem. And if it be meet that 
I go also, they shall go with me. Gal. ii. 10. Only they would that we 
should remember the poor ; the same which I also was forward to do. 

* Heb. xiii. 17. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit 
yourselves : for they watch for your souls, as they that must give ac- 
count, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is 
unprofitable for you. 1 Thess. v. 12, 13. And we beseech you, breth- 
ren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the 
Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for 
their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. 

i 2 Cor. xiii. 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of 
God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. 
Eph. i. 2. Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father and from 
the Lord Jesus Christ. 

* Ezek. xliii. 11, 12. Show them the form of the house, and the 
fashion thereof, and the goings out thereof, and the comings in thereof, 
and all the forms thereof, and all the ordinances thereof, and all the 
forms thereof, and all the laws thereof: and write it in their sight, 
that they may keep the whole form thereof, and all the ordinances 
thereof, and do them. This is the law of the house. 

1 Acts xv. 5, 6. But there rose up certain of the sect of the Phari- 
sees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 291 

diction, nor to inflict any civil penalties. 771 Their power 
is wholly moral or spiritual, and that only ministerial 
and declarative. 71 They possess the right of requiring 
obedience to the laws of Christ; and of excluding the 
disobedient and disorderly from the privileges of the 
church. To give efficiency, however, to this necessary 
and scriptural authority, they possess the powers requi- 
site for obtaining evidence and inflicting censure. They 
can call before them any offender against the order and 
government of the church ; they can require members of 
their own society to appear and give testimony in the 
cause; but the highest punishment to which their author- 
ity extends, is to exclude the contumacious and impeni- 
tent from the congregation of believers. 



CHAPTER IX. 

OF THE CHURCH SESSION. 

I. The Church session consists of the pastor or pastors, 
and ruling elders, of a particular congregation.^ 

and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles 
and elders came together for to consider of this matter. 

m Luke xii. 13, 14. And one of the company said unto him, Master 
speak to my brother, that h£ divide the inheritance with me. And he 
said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? 
John xviii. 36. — My kingdom is not of this world. 

w See and consult Acts xv. from the 1st to the 32d verse. 

Matt, xviii. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20. Moreover if thy brother shall tres- 
pass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him 
alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if 
he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in 
the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 
And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church : but if 
he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man 
and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on 
earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on 
earth shall be loosed in heaven. 1 Cor. v. 4, 5. In the name of our 
Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with 
the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, to deliver such an one unto Satan 
for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day 
of the Lord Jesus. 

p 1 Cor. v. 4. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are 



292 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

II. Of this judicatory, two elders, if there be as many 
in the congregation, with the pastor, shall be necessary to 
constitute a quorum. 

III. The pastor of the congregation shall always be 
the moderator of the session ; except when, for prudential 
reasons, it may appear advisable that some other minister 
should be invited to preside; in which case the pastor 
may, with the concurrence of the session, invite such 
other minister as they may see meet, belonging to the 
same presbytery, to preside in that case. The same expe- 
dient may be adopted in case of the sickness or absence 
of the pastor. 

IV. It is expedient, at every meeting of the session, 
more especially when constituted for judicial business, 
that there be a presiding minister. When, therefore, a 
church is without a pastor, the moderator of the session 
shall be, either the minister appointed for that purpose 
by the presbytery, or one invited by the session to preside 
on a particular occasion. But where it is impracticable, 
without great inconvenience, to procure the attendance 
of such a moderator, the session may proceed without it. 

V. In congregations where there are two or more pas- 
tors, they shall, when present, alternately preside in the 
session. 

VI. The Church session is charged with maintaining 
the spiritual government of the cougregation ; q for which 
purpose, they have power to inquire into the knowledge 
and Christian conduct of the members of the church ; r 
to call before them offenders and witnesses, being mem- 
bers of their own congregation, and to introduce other 
witnesses, where it may be necessary to bring the process 
to issue, and when they can be procured to attend ; to re- 
gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus 
Christ. 

? Heb. xiii. 17. Obey them that have the rule over you, and sub- 
mit yourselves : for they watch for your souls, as they that must give 
iccount, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief. 1 Thess. v. 
12, 13, and 1 Tim. v. 17. 

r Ezek. xxxiv. 4. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 293 

ceive members into the church ; to admonish, to rebuke, 
to suspend, or exclude from the sacraments, those who are 
found to deserve censure ; s to concert the best measures for 
promoting the spiritual interests of the congregation ; and to 
appoint delegates to the higher judicatories of the church.' 

VII. The pastor has power to convene the session when 
he may judge it requisite ; u and he shall always convene 
them when requested to do so by any two of the elders. 
The session shall also convene when directed so to do 
by the presbytery. 

VIII. Every session shall keep a fair record of its pro- 
ceedings; which record shall be, at least once in every 
year, submitted to the inspection of the presbytery. 

IX. It is important that every church session keep a 
fair register of marriages ; of baptisms, with the times 
of the birth of the individuals baptized ; of persons ad- 
mitted to the Lord's table, and of the deaths, and other 
removals of church members. 



CHAPTER X. 

OF THE PRESBYTERY. 



I. The Church being divided into many separate con- 
gregations, these need mutual counsel and assistance, in 
order to preserve soundness of doctrine, and regularity 
of discipline, and to enter into common measures for pro- 
moting knowledge and religion, and for preventing infi- 

« 1 Thess. v. 12, 13. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them 
which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admon- 
ish you ; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's 
sake. And be at peace among yourselves. See also 2 Thess. iii. 6, 14, 
15. 1 Cor. xi. 27 to the end. 

* Acts xv. 2, 6. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small 
dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and 
Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto 
the apostles and elders about this question. — And the apostles and 
elders came together for to consider of this matter. 

» Acts xx. 17. 



294 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

delity, error, and im morality. v Hence arise the importance 
and usefulness of presbyterial and synodical assemblies.™ 

II. A presbytery consists of all the ministers, in num- 
ber not less than five, and one ruling elder from each 
congregation, within a certain district. 

III. Every congregation, which has a stated pastor, has 
a right to be represented by one elder ; and every colle- 
giate church by two or more elders, in proportion to the 
number of its pastors. 

IV. Where two or more congregations are united under 
one pastor, all such congregations shall have but one elder 
to represent them. 

V. Every vacant congregation, which is regularly or- 
ganized, shall be entitled to be represented by a ruling 
elder in presbytery. 

VI. Every elder not known to the presbytery, shall 
produce a certificate of his regular appointment from 
the church which he represents.* 

VII. Any three ministers, and as many elders as may 
be present belonging to the presbytery, being met at the 
time and place appointed, shall be a quorum competent 
to proceed to business.^ 

v The church of Jerusalem consisted of more than one, as is mani- 
fest both before and after the dispersion, from Acts vi. 1, 6. Acts ix. 31. 
Acts xxi. 20. Acts ii. 41, 46, 47, and iv. 4. These congregations were 
under one presbyterial government, proved from Acts xv. 4. Acts xi 
22, 30. Acts xxi. 17, 18. Acts vi. That the church of Ephesus had more 
congregations than one, under a presbyterial government, appears 
from Acts xix. 18, 19, 20. 1 Cor. xvi. 8, 9, 19, compared with Acts xviii. 
19, 24, 26. Acts xx. 17, 18, 25, 28, 30, 31, 36, 37. Rev. ii. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. 

w 1 Tim. iv. 14. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given 
thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. 
Acts xv. 2, 3, 4, 6, 22.— And when they were come to Jerusalem, they 
were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they 
declared all things that God had done with them. — And the apostles 
and elders came together for to consider of this matter. 

* Acts xv. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. 1 Cor. xiv. 26, 33, 40— Let all things be done 
unto edifying ; — for God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, 
as in all churches of the saints. — Let all things be done decently and 
in order. 

v Acts xiv. 26, 27. And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they 
had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 295 

VIII. The presbytery has power to receive and issue 
appeals from church sessions z and references brought 
before them in an orderly manner ; a to examine and 
license candidates for the holy ministry ; b to ordain, 
install, remove, and judge ministers; to examine and 
approve or censure the records of the church sessions ; 
to resolve questions of doctrine or discipline seriously 
and reasonably proposed ; d to condemn erroneous opin- 
ions which injure the purity or peace of the church;* 

fulfilled. And when they were come, and had gathered the church 
together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how 
he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. Compared with 
Acts xi. 18. When they heard these things, they held their peace, 
and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted 
repentance unto life. 

* Acts xv. 5, 6, 19, 20. But there rose up certain of the sect of the 
Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise 
them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apos- 
tles and elders came together for to consider of this matter. — Where- 
fore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among 
the Gentiles are turned to God: but that we write unto them, that 
they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and 
from things strangled, and from blood. 

« Acts xviii. 24, 27. And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alex- 
andria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephe- 
sus. — And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren 
wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him. Compared with Acts 
xix. I, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. 

b 1 Tim. iv. 14. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given 
thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. 
Acts xiii. 2, 3. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy 
Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto 
I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid 
their hands on them, they sent them away. 

c Acts xv. 28. For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to 
lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things. 1 Cor. 
v. 3. 

d Acts xv. 10. Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon 
the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able 
to bear ? Compared with Gal. ii. 4, 5. 

« Acts xv. 22, 23, 24. Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the 
whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch 
with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas sursamed Barsabas, and 
Silas, chief men among the brethren: and they wrote letters by 
them after this manner ; The apostles and elders and brethren send 
greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and 



296 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

to visit particular churches, for the purpose of inquiring 
into their state, and redressing the evils that may have 
arisen in them -/ to unite or divide congregations, at the 
request of the people, or to form or receive new congre- 
gations, and in general to order whatever pertains to the 
spiritual welfare of the churches under their care.^ 

IX. It shall be the duty of the presbytery to keep a 
full and fair record of their proceedings, and to report to 
the synod, every year, licensures, ordinations, the receiv- 
ing or dismissing of members, the removal of members 
by death, the union or division of congregations, or the 
formation of new ones, and in general, all the important 
changes which may have taken place within their bounds 
in the course of the year. 

X. The presbytery shall meet on its own adjournment; 
and when any emergency shall require a meeting sooner 
than the time to which it stands adjourned, the modera- 
tor, or, in case of his absence, death, or inability to act, 
the stated clerk, shall, with the concurrence, or at the re- 
quest of two ministers and two elders, the elders being of 
different congregations, call a special meeting. For this 
purpose he shall send a circular letter, specifying the 
particular business of the intended meeting, to every 
minister belonging to the presbytery, and to the session 
of every vacant congregation, in due time previous to 
the meeting ; which shall not be less than ten days. And 

S3*ria and Cilicia: forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which 
went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your 
souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law ; to whom 
we gave no such commandment. 

/Acts xx. 17. And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the 
elders of the church. Acts vi. 2. Then the twelve called the multi- 
tude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we 
should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Acts xv. 30. So when 
they were dismissed, they came to Antioch ; and when they had gath- 
ered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle. 

s Eph. vi. 18. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in 
the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and suppli- 
cation for all saints.— Phil. iv. 6. Be careful for nothing; but in every 
thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests 
be made known unto God. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 297 

noching shall be transacted at such special meeting besides 
the particular business for which the judicatory has been 
thus convened. 

XI. At every meeting of presbytery, a sermon shall be 
delivered, if convenient; and every particular session 
shall be opened and closed with prayer. 

XII. Ministers in good standing in other presbyteries, 
or in any sister churches, who may happen to be present, 
may be invited to sit with the presbytery, as correspond- 
ing members. Such members shall be entitled to delib- 
erate and advise, but not to vote in any decisions of the 
presbytery. 



CHAPTER XI. 

OF THE SYNOD* 



I. As a presbytery is a convention of the bishops and 
elders within a certain district; so a synod is a conven- 
tion of the bishops and elders within a larger district, 
including at least three presbyteries. The synod may be 
composed, at its own option, with the consent of a major- 
ity of its presbyteries, either of all the bishops and an 
elder from each congregation in its district, with the same 
modifications as in the presbytery, or of equal delegations 
of bishops and elders, elected by the presbyteries on a 
basis and in a ratio determined in like manner by the 
synod itself and its presbyteries. 

II. Any seven ministers, belonging to the synod, who 
shall convene at the time and place of meeting, with as 
many elders as may be present, shall be a quorum to trans- 
act synodical business ; provided not more than three of 
the said ministers belong to one presbytery. 

* As the proofs already adduced in favor of a presbyterial assembly 
in the government of the church, are equally valid in support of a 
synodical assembly, it is unnecessary to repeat the scriptures to which 
reference has been made under Chap. X., or to add any other. 



298 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

III. The same rule, as to corresponding members, which 
was laid down with respect to the presbytery, shall apply 
to the synod. 

IV. The synod has power to receive and issue all ap- 
peals regularly brought up from the presbyteries, provided, 
that in the trial of judicial cases the synod shall have 
power to act by commission, in accordance with the pro- 
visions on the subject of judicial commissions in the Book 
of Discipline ; to decide on all references made to them ; its 
decisions on appeals, complaints, and references, which 
do not affect the doctrine or constitution of the church, 
being final ; to review the records of presbyteries, and 
approve or censure them; to redress whatever has been 
done by presbyteries contrary to order ; to take effectual 
care that presbyteries observe the constitution of the 
church; to erect new presbyteries, and unite or divide 
those which were before erected; generally to take such 
order with respect to the presbyteries, sessions, and peo- 
ple under their care, as may be in conformity with the 
word of God and the established rules, and which tend 
to promote the edification of the church ; and, finally, to 
propose to the General Assembly, for their adoption, such 
measures as may be of common advantage to the whole 
church. 

V. The synod shall convene at least once in each year; 
at the opening of which a sermon shall be delivered by 
the moderator, or, in case of his absence, by some other 
member; and every particular session shall be opened 
and closed with prayer. 

VI. It shall be the duty of the synod to keep full and 
fair records of its proceedings, to submit them annually 
to the inspection of the General Assembly, and to report 
to the Assembly the number of its presbyteries, and of 
the members and alterations of the presbyteries. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 299 

CHAPTER XII. 

OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY* 

I. The General Assembly is the highest judicatory 
of the Presbyterian Church. It shall represent, in one 
body, all the particular churches of this denomination; 
and shall bear the title of The General Assembly of 
the Presbyterian Church in the United States 
of America. 

II. The General Assembly shall consist of an equal 
delegation of bishops and elders from each presbytery, 
in the following proportion; viz: each presbytery con- 
sisting of not more than twenty-four ministers, shall 
send one minister and one elder; and each presbytery 
consisting of more than twenty-four ministers, shall send 
one minister and one elder for each additional twenty- 
four ministers, or for each additional fractional number 
of ministers not less than twelve ; and these delegates, so 
appointed, shall be styled, Commissioners to the General 
Assembly. 

III. Any fourteen or more of these commissioners, one 
half of whom shall be ministers, being met on the day, 
and at the place appointed, shall be a quorum for the 
transaction of business. 

IV. The General Assembly shall receive and issue all 
appeals, complaints, and references that affect the doc- 

* The radical principles of Presbyterian church government and 
discipline are : — That the several different congregations of believers, 
taken collectively, constitute one church of Christ, called emphatically 
the Church ;— that a larger part of the church, or a representation of it, 
should govern a smaller, or determine matters of controversy which 
arise therein ;— that, in like manner, a representation of the whole 
should govern and determine in regard to every part, and to all the 
parts united; that is, that a majority shall govern : and consequently 
that appeals may be carried from lower to higher judicatories, till 
they be finally decided by the collected wisdom and united voice of 
the whole church. For these principles and this procedure, the ex- 
ample of the apostles, and the practice of the primitive church, are 
considered as authority. See Acts xv. 1-29; xvi. 4, and the proofs ad- 
duced under the last three chapters. 



300 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

trine or constitution of the Church, which may be regu- 
larly brought before them from the inferior judicatories ; 
provided, that in the trial of judicial cases the General 
Assembly shall have power to act by commission, in 
accordance with the provisions on the subject of judi- 
cial commissions in the Book of Discipline. They shall 
review the records of every synod, and approve or cen- 
sure them : they shall give their advice and instruction in 
all cases submitted to them in conformity with the consti- 
tution of the Church ; and they shall constitute the bond 
of union, peace, correspondence, and mutual confidence, 
among all our churches. 

V. To the General Assembly also belongs the power 
of deciding in all controversies respecting doctrine and 
discipline; of reproving, warning, or bearing testimony 
against error in doctrine, or immorality in practice, in 
any church, presbytery, or synod ; of erecting new synods 
when it may be judged necessary; of superintending the 
concerns of the whole Church; of corresponding with 
foreign churches, on such terms as may be agreed upon 
by the Assembly and the corresponding body ; of sup- 
pressing schismatical contentions and disputations; and, 
in general, of recommending and attempting reforma- 
tion, of manners, and the promotion of charity, truth, 
and holiness, through all the churches under their care. 

VI. Before any overtures or regulations proposed by 
the Assembly to be established as constitutional rules, 
shall be obligatory on the churches, it shall be necessary 
to transmit them to all the presbyteries, and to receive 
the returns of at least a majority of them, in writing, 
approving thereof. 

VII. The General Assembly shall meet at least once in 
every year. On the day appointed for that purpose, the 
moderator of the last Assembly, if present, or in case of 
his absence, some other minister, shall open the meet- 
ing with a sermon, and preside until a new moderator bb 
chosen. No commissioner shall have a right to deliber- 
ate or vote in the Assembly, until his name shall have 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 301 

been enrolled by the clerk, and his commission exam- 
ined, and filed among the papers of the Assembly. 

VIII. Each session of the Assembly shall be opened 
and closed with prayer. And the whole business of the 
Assembly being finished, and the vote taken for dissolv- 
ing the present Assembly, the moderator shall say from 
the chair, — " By virtue of the authority delegated to me, 
" by the church, let this General Assembly be dissolved, 
" and I do hereby dissolve it, and require another General 
" Assembly, chosen in the same manner, to meet at 
" on the day of A. D. " — after which he shall 

pray and return thanks, and pronounce on those present 
the apostolic benediction. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

OF ELECTING AND ORDAINING RULING ELDERS AND 
DEACONS. 

I. Having defined the officers of the church, and the 
judicatories by which it shall be governed, it is proper here 
to prescribe the mode in which ecclesiastical rulers should 
be ordained to their respective offices, as well as some of 
the principles by which they shall be regulated in dis- 
charging their several duties. 

II. Every congregation shall elect persons to the office 
of ruling elder, and to the office of deacon, or either of 
them, in the mode most approved and in use in that con- 
gregation.* But in all cases the persons elected must be 
male members in full communion in the church in which 
they are to exercise their office. 

III. When any person shall have been elected to either 
of these offices, and shall have declared his willingness 
to accept thereof, he shall be set apart in the following 



* 1 Cor. xiv. 40. 



302 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

IV. After sermon, the minister shall state, in a concise 
manner, the warrant and nature of the office of ruling 
elder or deacon, together with the character proper to 
be sustained, and the duties to be fulfilled by the officer 
elect ; having done this, he shall propose to the candidate, 
in the presence of the congregation, the following ques- 
tions : — viz. 

1. Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New 
Testaments to be the word of God, the only infallible 
rule of faith and practice? 

2. Do you sincerely receive and adopt the confession 
of faith of this church, as containing the system of doc- 
trine taught in the Holy Scriptures? 

3. Do you approve of the government and discipline 
of the Presbyterian church in these United States? 

4. Do you accept the office of ruling elder (or deacon, 
as the case may be) in this congregation, and promise 
faithfully to perform all the duties thereof? 

5. Do you promise to study the peace, unity, and purity 
of the church ? 

The elder, or deacon elect, having answered these ques- 
tions in the affirmative, the minister shall address to the 
members of the church the following question : — viz. 

Do you, the members of this church, acknowledge and 
receive this brother as a ruling elder, (or deacon) and do 
you promise to yield him all that honor, encouragement, 
and obedience in the Lord, to which his office, according 
to the word of God, and the constitution of this church, 
entitles him? 

The members of the church having answered this ques- 
tion in the affirmative, by holding up their right hands, 
the minister shall proceed to set apart the candidate, by 
prayer, to the office of ruling elder, (or deacon, as the* case 
may be) and shall give to him, and to the congregation, 
an exhortation suited to the occasion. 

V. Where there is an existing session, it is proper that 

* Acts vi. 5, 6. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 303 

the members of that body, at the close of the service, and 
in the face of the congregation, take the newly ordained 
elder by the hand, saying in words to this purpose, — " We 
"give you the right hand of fellowship, to take part of 
" this office with us." 

VI. The offices of ruling elder and deacon are both per- 
petual, and cannot be laid aside at pleasure. No person 
can be divested of either office but by deposition. Yet 
an elder or deacon may become, by age or infirmity, 
incapable of performing the duties of his office; or he 
may, though chargeable with neither heresy nor immor- 
ality, become unacceptable, in his official character, to a 
majority of the congregation to which he belongs. In 
either of these cases, he may, as often happens with re- 
spect to a minister, cease to be an acting elder or deacon. 

VII. Whenever a ruling elder or deacon, from either 
of these causes, or from any other, not inferring crime, 
shall be incapable of serving the church to edification, 
the session shall take order on the subject, and state the 
fact, together with the reasons of it, on their records. 
Provided always, that nothing of this kind shall be done 
without the concurrence of the individual in question, 
unless by the advice of presbytery. 

VIII. If any particular church, by a vote of members 
in full communion, shall prefer to elect ruling elders or 
deacons for a limited time in the exercise of their func- 
tions, this may be done; provided, the full time be not 
less than three years, and the session or board of dea- 
cons be made to consist of three classes, one of which 
only shall be elected every year; and provided, that 
elders, once ordained, shall not be divested of the office 
when they are not re-elected, but shall be entitled to rep- 
resent that particular church in the higher judicatories, 
when appointed by the session or the presbytery. 



304 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

OF LICENSING CANDIDATES OR PROBATIONERS TO PREACH 
THE GOSPEL. 

I. The Holy Scriptures require that some trial be 
previously had of them who are to be ordained to the 
ministry of the gospel, that this sacred office may not 
be degraded, by being committed to weak or unworthy 
men;-? and that the churches may have an opportunity 
to form a better judgment respecting the talents of those 
by whom they are to be instructed and governed. For 
this purpose presbyteries shall license probationers to 
preach the gospel, that after a competent trial of their 
talents, and receiving from the churches a good report, 
they may, in due time, ordain them to the sacred office.* 

II. Every candidate for licensure shall be taken on trials 
by that presbytery to which he most naturally belongs ; 
and he shall be considered as most naturally belonging 
to that presbytery within the bounds of which he has 
ordinarily resided. But in case any candidate should 
find it more convenient to put himself under the care 
of a presbytery at a distance from that to which he most 
naturally belongs, he may be received by the said presby- 
tery, on his producing testimonials either from the pres- 
bytery within the bounds of which he has commonly 
resided, or from any two ministers of that presbytery in 
good standing, of his exemplary piety, and other requi- 
site qualifications. 

III. It is proper and requisite that candidates apply- 
ing to the presbytery to be licensed to preach the gospel, 
produce satisfactory testimonials of their good moral char- 
acter, and of their being regular members of some partic- 
ular church. And it is the duty of the presbytery, for 
their satisfaction with regard to the real piety of such 
candidates, to examine them respecting their experimen- 
tal acquaintance with religion, and the motives which 

/ 1 Tim. iii. 6. 2 Tim. ii. 2. * 1 Tim. iii. 7. 3 John 12. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 305 

influence them to desire the sacred office. 2 This exami- 
nation shall be close and particular, and, in most cases, 
may best be conducted in the presence of the presbytery 
only. And it is recommended that the candidate be also 
required to produce a diploma of bachelor or master of 
arts, from some college or university : or, at least, authen- 
tic testimonials of his having gone through a regular 
course of learning. 

IV. Because it is highly reproachful to religion, and 
dangerous to the church, to intrust the holy ministry to 
weak and ignorant men,™ the presbytery shall try each 
candidate, as to his knowledge of the Latin language; 
and the original languages in which the Holy Scriptures 
were written. They shall also examine him on the arts 
and sciences ; on theology, natural and revealed ; and on 
ecclesiastical history, the sacraments, and church govern- 
ment. And in order to make trial of his talents to explain 
and vindicate, and practically to enforce, the doctrines of 
the gospel, the presbytery shall require of him, 

1. A Latin exegesis on some common head in divinity. 

2. A critical exercise ; in which the candidate shall give 
a specimen of his taste and judgment in sacred criticism ; 
presenting an explication of the original text, stating its 
connection, illustrating its force and beauties, removing its 
difficulties, and solving any important questions which it 
may present. 

3. A lecture, or exposition of several verses of script- 
ure ; and, 

4. A popular sermon. 

V. These, or other similar exercises, at the discretion of 
the presbytery, shall be exhibited until they shall have 
obtained satisfaction as to the candidate's piety, litera- 
ture, and aptness to teach in the churches. 71 The lecture 
and popular sermon, if the presbytery think proper, may 
be delivered in the presence of a congregation. 

1 Roiq. ii. 21, in connection with letter (■?'), page 304. 
m See letter (*"), and (*;, page 304. 

n 1 Tim. iii. 2.— Apt to teach. See also the foregoing quotations. 
20 



306 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

VI. That the most effectual measures may be taken to 
guard against the admission of insufficient men into the 
sacred office/ it is recommended that no candidate, ex- 
cept in extraordinary cases, be licensed, unless, after his 
having completed the usual course of academical studies, 
he shall have studied divinity at least two years, under 
some approved divine or professor of theology. 

VII. If the presbytery be satisfied with his trials, they 
shall then proceed to license him in the following man- 
ner: The moderator shall propose to him the following 
questions : viz. 

1. Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New 
Testaments to be the word of God, the only infallible 
rule of faith and practice ? 

2. Do you sincerely receive and adopt the confession 
of faith of this church, as containing the system of doc- 
trine taught in the Holy Scriptures? 

3. Do you promise to study the peace, unity, and purity 
of the church ? 

4. Do you promise to submit yourself, in the Lord, to 
the government of this presbytery, or of any other pres- 
bytery in the bounds of which you may be called? 

VIII. The candidate having answered these questions 
in the affirmative, and the moderator having offered up 
a prayer suitable to the occasion, he shall address him- 
self to the candidate to the following purpose : — " In the 

name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by that authority 
which he hath given to the church for its edification, 
we do license you to preach the gospel, wherever God in 
his providence may call you : and for this purpose, may 
the blessing of God rest upon you, and the Spirit of 
Christ fill your heart. — Amen /" and record shall be 
made of the licensure in the following or like form : viz. 
At the day of the pres- 

bytery of having received testimonials in favor 

of of his having gone through a regular course 

See letter (•>*>, page 304. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 307 

of literature; of his good moral character; and of his 
being in the communion of the church : proceeded to take 
the usual parts of trial for his licensure : and he having 
given satisfaction as to his accomplishments in literature ; 
as to his experimental acquaintance with religion ; and as 
to his proficiency in divinity and other studies ; the pres- 
bytery did, and hereby do, express their approbation of 
all these parts of trial : and he having adopted the confes- 
sion of faith of this church, and satisfactorily answered 
the questions appointed to be put to candidates to be 
licensed ; the presbytery did, and hereby do license him, 
the said to preach the Gospel of Christ, as 

a probationer for the holy ministry, within the bounds 
of this presbytery, or wherever else he shall be orderly 
called. 

IX. When any candidate for licensure shall have occa- 
sion, while his trials are going on, to remove from the 
bounds of his own presbytery into those of another, it 
shall be considered as regular for the latter presbytery, 
on his producing proper testimonials from the former, to 
take up his trials at the point at which they were left, and 
conduct them to a conclusion, in the same manner as if 
they had been commenced by themselves. 
" X. In like manner, when any candidate, after licen- 
sure, shall, by the permission of his presbytery, remove 
without its limits, an extract of the record of his licen- 
sure, accompanied with a presbyterial recommendation, 
signed by the clerk, shall be his testimonials to the pres- 
bytery under whose care he shall come. 

XI. When a licentiate shall have been preaching for 
a considerable time, and his services do not appear to 
be edifying to the churches, the presbytery may, if they 
think proper, recall his license. 



308 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 



CHAPTER XV. 

OF THE ELECTION AND ORDINATION OF BISHOPS OR PAS- 
TORS, AND EVANGELISTS. 

I. When any probationer shall have preached so much 
to the satisfaction of any congregation, as that the people 
appear prepared to elect a pastor, the session shall take 
measures to convene them for this purpose : and it shall 
always be a duty of the session to convene them, when a 
majority of the persons entitled to vote in the case, shall, 
by a petition, request that a meeting may be called. 

II. When such a meeting is intended, the session shall 
solicit the presence and counsel of some neighboring 
minister to assist them in conducting the election con- 
templated, unless highly inconvenient on account of 
distance ; in which case they may proceed without such 
assistance. 

III. On a Lord's-day, immediately after public wor- 
ship, it shall be intimated from the pulpit, that all the 
members of that congregation are requested to meet on 

ensuing, at the church, or usual place for 
holding public worship ; then and there, if it be agree- 
able to them, to proceed to the election of a pastor for 
that congregation. 

IV. On the day appointed, the minister invited to pre- 
side, if he be present, shall, if it be deemed expedient, 
preach a sermon ; and after sermon he shall announce to 
the people, that he will immediately proceed to take the 
votes of the electors of that congregation, for a pastor, 
if such be their desire : and when this desire shall be ex- 
pressed by a majority of voices, he shall then proceed to 
take votes accordingly. In this election, no person shall 
be entitled to vote who refuses to submit to the censures 
of the church, regularly administered; or who does not 
contribute his just proportion, according to his own en- 
gagements, or the rules of that congregation, to all its 
necessary expenses. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 309 

V. When the votes are taken, if it appear that a large 
minority of the people are averse from the candidate who 
has a majority of votes, and cannot be induced to concur 
in the call, the presiding minister shall endeavor to dis- 
suade the congregation from prosecuting it further. But 
if the people be nearly, or entirely, unanimous; or if the 
majority shall insist upon their right to call a pastor, the 
presiding minister, in that case, after using his utmost en- 
deavors to persuade the congregation to unanimity, shall 
proceed to draw a call, in due form, and to have it sub- 
scribed by the electors; certifying at the same time, in 
writing, the number and circumstances of those who do 
not concur in the call: all which proceedings shall be 
laid before the presbytery, together with the call. 

VI. The call shall be in the following or like form : viz. 
The congregation of being, on sufficient 

grounds, well satisfied of the ministerial qualifications of 
you and having good hopes, from our 

past experience of your labors, that your ministrations in 
the Gospel will be profitable to our spiritual interests, do 
earnestly call and desire you to undertake the pastoral 
office in said congregation; promising you, in the dis- 
charge of your duty, all proper support, encouragement, 
and obedience in the Lord. And that you may be free 
from worldly cares and avocations, we hereby promise and 
oblige ourselves to pay to you the sum of 
in regular quarterly (or half yearly, or yearly) payments, 
during the time of your being and continuing the regular 
pastor of this church. In testimony whereof, we have 
respectively subscribed our names, this day of 

A. D. 
Attested by A. B., Moderator of the meeting. 

VII. But if any congregation shall choose to subscribe 
their call by their elders and deacons, or by their trustees, 
or by a select committee, they shall be at liberty to do so. 
But it shall, in such case, be fully certified to the presby- 
tery, by the minister, or other person who presided, that 
the persons signing have been appointed, for that purpose, 



310 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

by a public vote of the congregation ; and that the call 
has been, in all other respects, prepared as above directed. 

VIII. When a call shall be presented to any minister 
or candidate, it shall always be viewed as a sufficient pe- 
tition from the people for his installment. The accept- 
ance of a call, by a minister or candidate, shall always 
be considered as a request, on his part, to be installed at 
the same time. And when a candidate shall be ordained 
in consequence of a call from any congregation, the pres- 
bytery shall, at the same time, if practicable, install him 
pastor of that congregation. 

IX. The call, thus prepared, shall be presented to the 
presbytery, under whose care the person called shall be ; 
that, if the presbytery think it expedient to present the 
call to him, it may be accordingly presented: and no 
minister or candidate shall receive a call but through the 
hands of the presbytery. 

X. If the call be to a licentiate of another presbytery, 
in that case the commissioners deputed from the congre- 
gation to prosecute the call, shall produce, to that judica- 
tory, a certificate from their own presbytery, regularly 
attested by the moderator and clerk, that the call has been 
laid before them, and that it is in order. If that pres- 
bytery present the call to their licentiate, and he be dis- 
posed to accept it, they shall then dismiss him from their 
jurisdiction, and require him to repair to that presbytery, 
into the bounds of which he is called ; and there to sub- 
mit himself to the usual trials preparatory to ordination. 

XI. Trials for ordination, especially in a different pres- 
bytery from that in which the candidate was licensed, shall 
consist of a careful examination as to his acquaintance 
with experimental religion ; as to his knowledge of phil- 
osophy, theology, ecclesiastical history, the Greek and 
Hebrew languages, and such other branches of learning 
as to the presbytery may appear requisite ; and as to his 
knowledge of the constitution, the rules and principles 
of the government and discipline of the church ; together 
with such written discourse, or discourses, founded on the 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 311 

word of God, as to the presbytery shall seem proper.* The 
presbytery, being fully satisfied with his qualifications for 
the sacred office, shall appoint a day for his ordination, 
which ought to be, if convenient, in that church of which 
he is to be the minister. It is also recommended that a 
fast day be observed in the congregation previous to the 
day of ordination.* 

XII. The day appointed for ordination being come, 
and the presbytery convened, a member of the presby- 
tery, previously appointed to that duty, shall preach a 
sermon adapted to the occasion. The same, or another 
member appointed to preside, shall afterwards briefly re- 
cite from the pulpit, in the audience of the people, the 
proceedings of the presbytery preparatory to this trans- 
action : he shall point out the nature and importance of 
the ordinance; and endeavor to impress the audience 
with a proper sense of the solemnity of the transaction. 

Then, addressing himself to the candidate, he shall pro- 
pose to him the following questions, viz. : 

1. Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New 
Testaments to be the word of God, the only infallible rule 
of faith and practice ? r 

2. Do you sincerely receive and adopt the confession 
of faith of this church, as containing the system of doc- 
trine taught in the Holy Scriptures? 8 

3. Do you approve of the government and discipline 
of the Presbyterian Church in these United States ?* 

4. Do you promise subjection to your brethren in the 
Lord?" 

5. Have you been induced, as far as you know your 
own heart, to seek the office of the holy ministry from 
love to God, and a sincere desire to promote his glory in 
the gospel of his Son?* 

6. Do you promise to be zealous and faithful in main- 

p See the proofs in sections 1, 2, 3, 4, of chapter iv. 

« Acts xiii. 2, 3. ' 2 Tim. iii. 16. Eph. ii. 20. 

• 2 Tim. i. 13. ' See letter («) above. 

«* 1 Pet. v. 5. ■ 1 Cor. ii. 2. 2 Cor. iv. 5, 



312 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

taming the truths of the gospel, and the purity and peace 
of the church; whatever persecution or opposition may 
arise unto you on that account? 70 

7. Do you engage to be faithful and diligent in the 
exercise of all private and personal duties, which become 
you as a Christian and a minister of the gospel ; as well 
as in all relative duties, and the public duties of your 
office ; endeavoring to adorn the profession of the gospel 
by your conversation ; and walking with exemplary piety 
before the flock over which God shall make you overseer? 35 

8. Are you now willing to take the charge of this con- 
gregation, agreeably to your declaration at accepting their 
call? And do you promise to discharge the duties of a 
pastor to them, as God shall give you strength 2 y 

XIII. The candidate having answered these questions 
in the affirmative, the presiding minister shall propose to 
the people the following questions: — 

1. Do you, the people of this congregation, continue to 
profess your readiness to receive 

whom you have called to be your minister? 

2. Do you promise to receive the word of truth from 
his mouth, with meekness and love; and to submit to 
him in the due exercise of discipline ?* 

3. Do you promise to encourage him in his arduous 
labor, and to assist his endeavors for your instruction 
and spiritual edification ? a 

4. And do you engage to continue to him, while he is 
your pastor, that competent worldly maintenance which 
you have promised; and whatever else you may see 
needful for the honor of religion, and his comfort among 
you? 6 

XIV. The people having answered these questions in 
the affirmative, by holding up their right hands, the can- 
didate shall kneel down in the most convenient part of 

w Acts xx. 17 to 31. 

* See the epistles to Timothy and Titus throughout. 

v 1 Pet. v. 2. z James i. 21. Heb. xiii. 17. 

« 1 Thess. v. 12, 13. * 1 Cor. ix. 7 to 15. 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 313 

the church. Then the presiding minister shall, by prayer/ 5 
and with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery,* 
according to the apostolic example, solemnly ordain him 
to the holy office of the gospel ministry. Prayer being 
ended, he shall rise from his knees ; and the minister who 
presides shall first, and afterward all the members of the 
presbytery in their order, take him by the right hand, say- 
ing, in w r ords to this purpose, " We give you the right hand 
" of fellowship, to take part of this ministry with us." e 
After which the minister presiding, or some other ap- 
pointed for the purpose, shall give a solemn charge in 
the name of God, to the newly ordained bishop/ and to 
the people/ to persevere in the discharge of their mutual 
duties ; and shall then, by prayer, recommend them both 
to the grace of God, and his holy keeping, and finally, 
alter singing a psalm, shall dismiss the congregation with 
the usual blessing. And the presbytery shall duly record 
the transaction. 

XV. As it is sometimes desirable and important that a 
candidate who has not received a call to be the pastor of a 
particular congregation, should, nevertheless, be ordained 
to the work of the gospel ministry, as an evangelist to 
preach the gospel, administer sealing ordinances, and 
organize churches, in frontier or destitute settlements; 
in this case, the last of the preceding questions shall be 
omitted, and the following used as a substitute: — viz. 

Are you now willing to undertake the work of an evan- 
gelist ; and do you promise to discharge the duties which 
may be incumbent on you in this character, as God shall 
give you strength? 

* Acts xiii. 2, 3. <* 1 Tim. iv. 14. 

«Gal. ii. 9. Acts i. 25. / 2 Tim. iv. 1, 2. 

s Mark iv. 24. Heb. ii. 1. See also letters (*), (*), and (<*), page 312. 



314 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

OF TRANSLATION, OR REMOVING A MINISTER FROM ONE 
CHARGE TO ANOTHER. 

I. No bishop shall be translated from one church to 
another, nor shall he receive any call for that purpose, 
but by the permission of the presbytery. 

II. Any church, desiring to call a settled minister from 
his present charge, shall, by commissioners properly au- 
thorized, represent to the presbytery the ground on which 
they plead his removal. The presbytery, having maturely 
considered their plea, may, according as it appears more 
or less reasonable, either recommend to them to desist 
from prosecuting the call, or may order it to be delivered 
to the minister to whom it is directed. If the parties be 
not prepared to have the matter issued at that presby- 
tery, a written citation shall be given to the minister and 
his congregation, to appear before the presbytery at their 
next meeting. This citation shall be read from the pulpit 
in that church, by a member of the presbytery appointed 
for that purpose, immediately after public worship; so 
that at least two Sabbaths shall intervene betwixt the 
citation and the meeting of the presbytery at which the 
cause of translation is to be considered. The presbytery 
being met, and having heard the parties, shall, upon the 
whole view of the case, either continue him in his former 
charge, or translate him, as they shall deem to be most 
for the peace and edification of the church ; or refer the 
whole affair to the synod at their next meeting, for their 
advice and direction. 

III. When the congregation calling any settled minis- 
ter is within the limits of another presbytery, that congre- 
gation shall obtain leave from the presbytery to which 
they belong, to apply to the presbytery of which he is a 
member ; and that presbytery, having cited him and his 
congregation as before directed, shall proceed to hear and 
issue the cause. If they agree to the translation, they 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 315 

shall release him from his present charge ; and having 
given him proper testimonials, shall require him to repair 
to that presbytery, within the bounds of which the con- 
gregation calling him lies, that the proper steps may be 
taken for his regular settlement in that congregation : and 
the presbytery to which the congregation belongs, having 
received an authenticated certificate of his release, under 
the hand of the clerk of that presbytery, shall proceed to 
install him in the congregation, as soon as convenient. 
Provided always, that no bishop or pastor shall be trans- 
lated without his own consent previously obtained. 

IV. When any minister is to be settled in a congrega- 
tion, the installment, which consists in constituting a pas- 
toral relation between him and the people of that particu- 
lar church, may be performed either by the presbytery, or 
by a committee appointed for that purpose, as may appear 
most expedient : and the following order shall be observed 
therein : 

V. A day shall be appointed for the installment at such 
time as may appear most convenient, and due notice 
thereof given to the congregation. 

VI. When the presbytery, or committee, shall be con- 
vened and constituted, on the day appointed, a sermon 
shall be delivered by some one of the members previously 
appointed thereto ; immediately after which, the bishop 
who is to preside shall state to the congregation the design 
of their meeting, and briefly recite the proceedings of the 
presbytery relative thereto. And then, addressing him- 
self to the minister to be installed, shall propose to him 
the following or similar questions : 

1. Are you now willing to take the charge of this con- 
gregation, as their pastor, agreeably to your declaration 
at accepting their call? 

2. Do you conscientiously believe and declare, as far 
as you know your own heart, that in taking upon you 
this charge, you are influenced by a sincere desire to pro- 
mote the glory of God, and the good of his church ? 

3. Do you solemnly promise, that, by the assistance of 



316 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

the grace of God, you will endeavor faithfully to dis- 
charge all the duties of a pastor to this congregation, and 
will be careful to maintain a deportment in all respects 
becoming a minister of the gospel of Christ, agreeably to 
your ordination engagements? 

To all these having received satisfactory answers, he 
shall propose to the people the same or like questions as 
those directed under the head of ordination ; which, hav- 
ing been also satisfactorily answered, by holding up the 
right hand in testimony of assent, he shall solemnly pro- 
nounce and declare the said minister to be regularly con- 
stituted the pastor of that congregation. A charge shall 
then be given to both parties, as directed in the case of 
ordination ; and, after prayer, and singing a psalm adapted 
to the transaction, the congregation shall be dismissed with 
the usual benediction. 

VII. It is highly becoming, that, after the solemnity of 
the installment, the heads of families of that congrega- 
tion who are then present, or at least the elders, and 
those appointed to take care of the temporal concerns of 
that church, should come forward to their pastor, and 
give him their right hand, in token of cordial reception 
and affectionate regard. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

OF RESIGNING A PASTORAL CHARGE. 

When any minister shall labor under such grievances 
in his congregation, as that he shall desire leave to resign 
his pastoral charge, the presbytery shall cite the congre- 
gation to appear, by their commissioners, at their next 
meeting, to show cause, if any they have, why the pres- 
bytery should not accept the resignation. If the congre- 
gation fail to appear, or if their reasons for retaining 
their pastor be deemed by the presbytery insufficient, he 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 317 

shall have leave granted to resign his pastoral charge, of 
which due record shall be made; and that church shall 
be held to be vacant, till supplied again, in an orderly 
manner, with another minister : and if any congregation 
shall desire to be released from their pastor, a similar 
process, mutatis mutandis, shall be observed. 



CHAPTEK XVIII. 

OF MISSIONS. 

When vacancies become so numerous in any presby- 
tery that they cannot be supplied with the frequent admin- 
istration of the word and ordinances, it shall be proper for 
such presbytery, or any vacant congregation within their 
bounds, with the leave of the presbytery, to apply to 
any other presbytery, or to any synod, or to the General 
Assembly, for such assistance as they can afford. And, 
when any presbytery shall send any of their ministers or 
probationers to distant vacancies, the missionary shall be 
ready to produce his credentials to the presbytery or pres- 
byteries, through the bounds of which he may pass, or at 
least to a committee thereof, and obtain their approba- 
tion. And the General Assembly may, of their own 
knowledge, send missions to any part to plant churches, 
or to supply vacancies : and, for this purpose, may direct 
any presbytery to ordain evangelists, or ministers with- 
out relation to particular churches : provided always, that 
such missions be made with the consent of the parties ap- 
pointed ; and that the judicatory sending them, make the 
necessary provision for their support and reward in the 
performance of this service. 



318 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

CHAPTER XIX. 

OF MODERATORS. 

I. It is equally necessary in the judicatories of the 
church, as in other assemblies, that there should be a 
moderator or president; that the business may be con- 
ducted with order and despatch. 

II. The moderator is to be considered as possessing, by 
delegation from the whole body, all authority necessary 
for the preservation of order; for convening and adjourn- 
ing the judicatory ; and directing its operations according 
to the rules of the church. He is to propose to the judi- 
catory every subject of deliberation that comes before 
them. He may propose what appears to him the most 
regular and speedy way of bringing any business to issue. 
He shall prevent the members from interrupting each 
other; and require them, in speaking, always to address 
the chair. He shall prevent a speaker from deviating 
from the subject; and from using personal reflections. 
He shall silence those who refuse to obey order. He 
shall prevent members who attempt to leave the judica- 
tory without leave obtained from him. He shall, at a 
proper season, when the deliberations are ended, put the 
question and call the votes. If the judicatory be equally 
divided, he shall possess the casting vote. If he be not 
willing to decide, he shall put the question a second time ; 
and if the judicatory be again equally divided, and he de- 
cline to give his vote, the question shall be lost. In all 
questions he shall give a concise and clear state of the 
object of the vote ; and the vote being taken, shall then 
declare how the question is decided. And he shall like- 
wise be empowered, on any extraordinary emergency, to 
convene the judicatory, by his circular letter, before the 
ordinary time of meeting. 

III. The moderator of the presbytery shall be chosen 
from year to year, or at every meeting of the presbytery, 
as the presbytery may think best. The moderator of the 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 319 

synod, and of the General Assembly, shall be chosen at 
each meeting of those judicatories: and the moderator, 
or, in case of his absence, another member appointed for 
the purpose, shall open the next meeting with a sermon, 
and shall hold the chair till a new moderator be chosen. 



CHAPTER XX. 

OF CLERKS. 



Every judicatory shall choose a clerk, to record their 
transactions, whose continuance shall be during pleasure. 
It shall be the duty of the clerk, besides recording the 
transactions, to preserve the records carefully; and to 
grant extracts from them, whenever properly required: 
and such extracts, under the hand of the clerk, shall be 
considered as authentic vouchers of the fact which they 
declare, in any ecclesiastical judicatory, and to every part 
of the church. 



CHAPTER XXI. 



OF VACANT CONGREGATIONS ASSEMBLING FOR PUBLIC 
WORSHIP. 

Considering the great importance of weekly assem- 
bling the people, for the public worship of God, in order 
thereby to improve their knowledge; to confirm their 
habits of worship, and their desire of the public ordi- 
nances ; to augment their reverence for the most high 
God ; and to promote the charitable affections which unite 
men most firmly in society : it is recommended, that every 
vacant congregation meet together, on the Lord's day, at 
one or more places, for the purpose o£ prayer, singing 
praises, and reading the holy Scriptures, together with 
the works of such approved divines, as the presbytery, 



320 FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 

within whose bounds they are, may recommend, and they 
may be able to procure ; and that the elders or deacons 
be the persons who shall preside, and select the portions 
of Scripture, and of the other books to be read ; and to 
see that the whole be conducted in a becoming and or- 
derly manner. 



CHAPTER XXII. 

OF COMMISSIONERS TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 

I. The commissioners to the General Assembly shall 
always be appointed by the presbytery from which they 
come, at its last stated meeting, immediately preceding 
the meeting of the General Assembly; provided, that 
there be a sufficient interval between that time and the 
meeting of the Assembly, for their commissioners to at- 
tend to their duty in due season ; otherwise, the presbytery 
may make the appointment at any stated meeting, not 
more than seven months preceding the meeting of the 
Assembly. And as much as possible to prevent all fail- 
ure in the representation of the presbyteries, arising from 
unforeseen accidents to those first appointed, it may be 
expedient for each presbytery, in the room of each com- 
missioner, to appoint also an alternate commissioner to 
supply his place, in case of necessary absence. 

II. Each commissioner, before his name shall be en- 
rolled as a member of the Assembly, shall produce from 
his presbytery, a commission under the hand of the mod- 
erator and clerk, in the following, or like form — viz. 

" The presbytery of being met at 

" on the day of doth hereby appoint 

" bishop of the congregation of [or 

" ruling elder in the congregation of as the case 

" may be;"] (to which the presbytery may, if they think 
proper, make a substitution in the following form) "or in 
" case of his absence, then bishop of the congre- 



FORM OF GOVERNMENT. 321 

" gation of [or ruling elder in the congre- 

" gation of as the case may be :] to be a commis- 

" sioner, on behalf of this presbytery, to the next General 
"Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United 
" States of America, to meet at on the 

" day of A. D. or wherever, and whenever 

" the said Assembly may happen to sit ; to consult, vote. 
" and determine, on all things that may come before that 
"body, according to the principles and constitution of 
"this church, and the word of God. And of his dili- 
gence herein, he is to render an account at his return. 
Signed by order of the presbytery, 

Moderator, 

Clerk." 

And the presbytery shall make record of the appoint- 
ment. 

III. In order, as far as possible, to procure a respectable 
and full delegation to all our judicatories, it is proper that 
the expenses of ministers and elders in their attendance on 
these judicatories, be defrayed by the bodies which they 
respectively represent. 
21 



BOOK II. 

OF DISCIPLINE. 

AS ADOPTED, 1884-85. 



CHAPTER I. 

OF DISCIPLINE: ITS NATURE, ENDS, AND SUBJECTS. 

1. Discipline is the exercise of that authority, and 
the application of that system of laws, which the Lord 
Jesus Christ has appointed in his Church : embracing 
the. care and control, maintained by the Church, over 
its members, officers, and judicatories. 

2. The ends of Discipline are the maintenance of the 
truth, the vindication of the authority and honor of 
Christ, the removal of offences, the promotion of the 
purity and edification of the Church, and the spiritual 
good of offenders. Its exercise, in such a manner as to 
secure its appropriate ends, requires much prudence and 
discretion. Judicatories, therefore, should take into con- 
sideration all the circumstances which may give a dif- 
ferent character to conduct, and render it more or less 
offensive ; and which may require different action, in 
similar cases, at different times, for the attainment of 
the same ends. 

3. An offence is anything, in the doctrine, principles, or 
practice of a church member, officer, or judicatory, which 
is contrary to the Word of God ; or which, if it be not 
in its own nature sinful, may tempt others to sin, or mar 
their spiritual edification. 

4. Nothing shall, therefore, be the object of judicial 
process, which cannot be proved to be contrary to the 

322 • 



DISCIPLINE. 323 

Holy Scriptures, or to the regulations and practice of 
the Church founded thereon; nor anything which does 
not involve those evils which Discipline is intended to 
prevent. 

5. All children born within the pale of the visible 
Church are members of the Church, are to be baptized, 
are under the care of the Church, and subject to its gov- 
ernment and discipline; and when they have arrived at 
years of discretion, they are bound to perform all the 
duties of church members. 



CHAPTEE II. 

OF THE PARTIES IN CASES OF PROCESS. 

6. Process against an alleged offender shall not be 
commenced unless some person undertakes to sustain the 
charge; or unless a judicatory finds it necessary for the 
ends of discipline to investigate the alleged offence. 

7. An offence, gross in itself, may have been committed 
in such circumstances, that plainly the offender cannot 
be prosecuted to conviction. In all such cases, it is bet- 
ter to wait until God, in his righteous providence, shall 
give further light, than, by unavailing prosecution, to 
weaken the force of discipline. 

8. No prosecution shall be allowed in a case of alleged 
personal injury, where the injured party is the prosecu- 
tor, unless those means of reconciliation have been tried, 
which are required by our Lord, Matthew xviii. 15-17 : 
"If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell 
him his fault between thee and him alone : if he shall 
hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will 
not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that 
in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may 
be established. And if he shail neglect to hear them, 
tell it unto the Church." 



324 DISCIPLINE. 

9. The course prescribed by the preceding section shall 
not be required when the prosecution is initiated by a 
judicatory; but in all such cases, and in every case of 
prosecution by a private person other than the injured 
party, effort should be made, by private conference with 
the accused, to avoid, if possible, the necessity of actual 
process. 

10. When the prosecution is initiated by a judicatory, 
the Presbyterian Church in the United States 
of America shall be the prosecutor, and an original 
party ; in all other cases, the individual prosecutor shall 
be an original party. 

11. When the prosecution is initiated by a judicatory, 
it shall appoint one or more of its own members a Com- 
mittee to conduct the prosecution in all its stages in what- 
ever judicatory, until the final issue be reached: provided, 
that any appellate judicatory before which the case is pend- 
ing shall, if desired by the prosecuting committee, appoint 
one or more of its own members to assist in the prose- 
cution, upon the nomination of the prosecuting com- 
mittee. 

12. If one, who considers himself slandered, requests 
an investigation which a judicatory finds it proper to in- 
stitute, one or more of its members shall be appointed 
to investigate the alleged slander, and make report in 
writing: and a record thereafter made may conclude 
the matter. 

13. Great caution ought to be exercised in receiving 
accusations from any person who is known to indulge a 
malignant spirit toward the accused, or who is not of 
good character, or who is himself under censure or pro- 
cess, or who is personally interested in any respect in 
the conviction of the accused, or who is known to be 
litigious, rash, or highly imprudent. 

14. Any person who appears as a prosecutor, without 
appointment by the judicatory, shall be warned before 
the charges are presented, that, if he fail to show proba- 
ble cause for the charges, he must himself be censured, 



DISCIPLINE. 325 

as a slanderer of the brethren, in proportion to the ma- 
lignancy or rashness which may appear in the prosecu- 
tion. 



CHAPTER III. 

OF CHARGES AND SPECIFICATIONS. 

15. The charge shall set forth the alleged offence; and 
the specifications shall set forth the facts relied upon to 
sustain the charge. Each specification shall declare, as 
far as possible, the time, place, and circumstances, and 
shall be accompanied with the names of the witnesses to 
be cited for its support. 

16. A charge shall not allege more than one offence; 
several charges against the same person, however, with 
the specifications under each of them, may be presented 
to the judicatory at one and the same time, and may, in 
the discretion of the judicatory, be tried together. But, 
when several charges are tried at the same time, a vote 
on each charge must be separately taken. 

17. In all cases of alleged personal injury, where the 
prosecution is by the injured person or persons, the charge 
must be accompanied by an averment, that the course 
prescribed by our Lord, Matt, xviii. 15-17, has been 
faithfully tried. 



CHAPTER IV. 

OF PROCESS: GENERAL RULES PERTAINING TO ALL CASES. 

18. Original jurisdiction, in relation to Ministers, 
pertains to the Presbytery; in relation to others, to the 
Session. But the higher judicatories may institute pro- 
cess in cases in which the lower have been directed so 
to do, and have refused or neglected to obey. 



326 DISCIPLINE. 

19. When a judicatory enters on the consideration of 
an alleged offence, the charge and specifications, which 
shall be in writing, shall be read ; and nothing more shall 
be done at that meeting, unless by consent of parties, than 
to furnish the accused with a copy of the charge and spe- 
cifications, together with the names of all the witnesses 
then known to support each specification ; and to cite all 
concerned to appear at a subsequent meeting of the judi- 
catory, to be held not less than ten days after the service 
of the citations. The citations shall be signed, in the 
name of the judicatory, by the Moderator, or Clerk; who 
shall, also, furnish citations for such witnesses as either 
party shall name. The accused shall not be required to 
disclose the names of his witnesses. 

20. Citations shall be served personally, unless the per- 
son to be cited cannot be found, in which case the cita- 
tion shall be sent to his last known place of residence ; 
and, before proceeding to trial, it must appear that the 
citations have been served. 

21. If an accused person refuses to obey a citation, a 
second citation shall issue, accompanied by a notice that, 
if he do not appear at the time appointed, unless provi- 
dentially hindered, he will be censured for his contumacy, 
according to the subsequent provisions of the Book of 
Discipline. [See Sections 33, 38 and 46.) If he does not 
then appear, the judicatory may proceed to trial and judg- 
ment in his absence ; in which case it shall appoint some 
person to represent him as counsel. The time allowed 
for his appearance, on any citation subsequent to the first, 
shall be determined by the judicatory, with proper regard 
for all the circumstances. The same rule, as to the time 
allowed for appearance, shall apply to all witnesses cited 
at the request of either party. 

22. At the meeting at which the citations are returnable, 
the accused shall appear, or, if unable to be present, may 
appear by counsel. He may file objections to the regu- 
larity of the organization, or to the jurisdiction of the 
judicatory, or to the sufficiency of the charges and spe- 



Ch. IV.] DISCIPLINE. 327 

cifications in form or in legal effect, or any other substan- 
tial objection affecting the order or regularity of the pro- 
ceeding, on which objections the parties shall be heard. 
The judicatory upon the filing of such objections shall, or 
on its own motion may, determine all such preliminary 
objections, and may dismiss the case, or permit, in the 
furtherance of justice, amendments to the specifications 
or charges not changing the general nature of the same. 
If the proceedings be found in order, and the charges and 
specifications be considered sufficient to put the accused 
on his defence, he shall plead "guilty," or " not guilty," 
to the same, which shall be entered on the record. If 
the plea be " guilty/' the judicatory shall proceed to judg- 
ment ; but if the plea be " not guilty," or if the accused 
decline to answer, a plea of " not guilty" shall be entered 
of record and the trial proceed. 

23. The witnesses shall be examined, and, if desired, 
cross-examined, and any other competent evidence intro- 
duced, at a meeting of which the accused shall be prop- 
erly notified ; after which new witnesses and other evi- 
dence, in rebuttal only, may be introduced by either party. 
But evidence, discovered during the progress of the trial, 
may be admitted, in behalf of either party, under such 
regulations, as to notice of the names of witnesses and 
the nature of the proof, as the judicatory shall deem rea- 
sonable and proper ; and then the parties themselves shall 
be heard. The judicatory shall then go into private ses- 
sion — the parties, their counsel, and all other persons not 
members of the body, being excluded ; when, after care- 
ful deliberation, the judicatory shall proceed to vote on 
each specification and on each charge separately, and 
judgment shall be entered accordingly. 

24. The charge and specifications, the plea, and the 
judgment, shall be entered on the minutes of the judi- 
catory. The minutes shall also exhibit all the acts and 
orders of the judicatory relating to the case, with the 
reasons therefor, together with the notice of appeal, and 
the reasons therefor, if any shall have been filed; all 



328 DISCIPLINE. 

which, together with the evidence in the case duly filed 
and authenticated by the Clerk of the judicatory, shall 
constitute the record of the case; and, in case of a re- 
moval thereof by appeal, the lower judicatory shall trans- 
mit the record to the higher. Nothing which is not con- 
tained in the record shall be taken into consideration in 
the higher judicatory. 

25. Exceptions may be taken by either of the original 
parties in a trial, to any part of the proceedings, except 
in the judicatory of last resort, and shall be entered on 
the record. 

26. No professional counsel shall be permitted to ap- 
pear and plead in cases of process in any of our eccle- 
siastical judicatories. But if any accused person feel 
unable to represent and plead his own cause to advan- 
tage, he may request any minister or elder, belonging to 
the judicatory before which he appears, to prepare and 
exhibit his cause as he may judge proper. But the min- 
ister or elder so engaged shall not be allowed, after plead- 
ing the cause of the accused, to sit in judgment as a mem- 
ber of the judicatory. 

27. Questions as to order or evidence, arising in the 
course of a trial, shall, after the parties have had an 
opportunity to be heard, be decided by the Moderator, 
subject to appeal; and the question on the appeal shall 
be determined without debate. All such decisions, if de- 
sired by either party, shall be entered upon the record of 
the case. 

28. No member of a judicatory who has not been pres- 
ent during the whole of a trial, shall be allowed to vote 
on any question arising therein, except by unanimous 
consent of the judicatory and of the parties ; and, when 
a trial is in progress, except in an appellate judicatory, 
the roll shall be called after each recess and adjournment, 
and the names of the absentees shall be noted. 

29. The parties shall be allowed copies of the record 
at their own expense; and, on the final disposition of a 
case in a higher judicatory, the record of the case, with 



DISCIPLINE. 329 

the judgment, shall be transmitted to the judicatory in 
which the case originated. 

30. In the infliction and removal of church censures, 
judicatories shall observe the modes prescribed in Chap- 
ter X. of the Directory for Worship. 

31. In all cases of judicial process, the judicatory may, 
at any stage of the case, determine, jpy a vote of two- 
thirds, to sit with closed doors. 

32. A judicatory may, if the edification of the Church 
demands it, require an accused person to refrain from 
approaching the Lord's Table, or from the exercise of 
office, or both, until final action in the case shall be 
taken ; provided, that in all cases a speedy investigation 
or trial shall be had. 



CHAPTER V. 

SPECIAL RULES PERTAINING TO CASES BEFORE SESSIONS. 

33. When an accused person has been twice duly cited, 
and refuses to appear, by himself or counsel, before a Ses- 
sion, or, appearing, refuses to answer the charge brought 
against him, he shall be suspended, by act of Session, 
from the communion of the Church, and shall so remain 
until he repents of his contumacy, and submits himself 
to the orders of the judicatory. 

34. The censures to be inflicted by the Session are 
Admonition, Eebuke, Suspension or Deposition from 
office, Suspension from the communion of the Church, 
and, in the case of offenders who will not be reclaimed 
by milder measures, Excommunication. 

35. The sentence shall be published, if at all, only in 
the Church or Churches which have been offended. 



330 DISCIPLINE. 

CHAPTEE VI. 

GENERAL RULES PERTAINING TO THE TRIAL OF A MINIS- 
TEE, ELDER, OR DEACON. 

36. As the honor and success of the gospel depend, in 
a great measure, on the character of its Ministers, each 
Presbytery ought, with the greatest care and impartiality, 
to watch over their personal and professional conduct. 
But as, on the one hand, no Minister ought, on account 
of his office, to be screened from the hand of justice, or his 
offences to be slightly censured, so neither ought charges 
to be received against him on slight grounds. 

37. If a Minister be accused of an offence, at such a dis- 
tance from his usual place of residence as that it is not 
likely to become otherwise known to his Presbytery, it 
shall be the duty of the Presbytery within whose bounds 
the offence is alleged to have been committed, if it shall be 
satisfied that there is probable ground for the accusation, 
to notify his Presbytery thereof, and of the nature of the 
offence; and his Presbytery, on receiving such notice, 
shall, if it appears that the honor of religion requires it, 
proceed to the trial of the case. 

38. If a Minister accused of an offence refuses to ap- 
pear by himself or counsel, after being twice duly cited, 
he shall, for his contumacy, be suspended from his office ; 
and if, after another citation, he refuses to appear by him- 
self or counsel, he shall be suspended from the commu- 
nion of the Church. 

39. If a judicatory so decides, a member shall not be 
allowed, while charges are pending against him, to delib- 
erate or vote on any question. 

40. If the accused be found guilty, he shall be admon- 
ished, rebuked, suspended or deposed from office (with or 
without suspension from church privileges, in either case), 
or excommunicated. A Minister suspended from office 
may, at the expiration of one year, unless he gives satis- 
factory evidence of repentance, be deposed without fur- 
ther trial. 



DISCIPLINE. 331 

41. Heresy and schism may be of such a nature as to 
call for deposition ; but errors ought to be carefully con- 
sidered, whether they strike at the vitals of religion and 
are industriously spread, or whether they arise from the 
weakness of the human understanding, and are not likely 
to do much injury. 

42. If the Presbytery finds, on trial, that the matter 
complained of amounts to no more than such acts of in- 
firmity as may be amended and the people satisfied, so 
that little or nothing remains to hinder the usefulness 
of the offender, it shall take all prudent measures to 
remove the evil. 

43. A Minister deposed for immoral conduct shall not be 
restored, even on the deepest sorrow for his sin, until after 
some considerable time of eminent and exemplary, hum- 
ble and edifying conduct ; and he ought in no case to be 
restored, until it shall clearly appear to the judicatory 
within whose bounds he resides, that the restoration can 
be effected without injury to the cause of religion ; and 
then only by the judicatory inflicting the censure, or with 
its advice and consent. 

44. If a Minister is deposed without excommunication, 
his pulpit, if he is a Pastor, shall be declared vacant ; and 
the Presbytery shall give him a letter to any church with 
which he may desire to connect himself where his lot may 
be cast, in which shall be stated his exact relation to the 
Church. If a Pastor is suspended from office only, the 
Presbytery may, if no appeal from the sentence of sus- 
pension is pending, declare his pulpit vacant. 

45. A Presbytery may, if the edification of the Church 
demand it, require an accused Minister to refrain from the 
exercise of his office until final action in the case shall be 
taken : provided, that in all cases a speedy investigation or 
trial shall be had. 

46. In process by a Session against a ruling elder or a 
deacon, the provisions of this chapter, so far as applica- 
ble, shall be observed. 



332 DISCIPLINE. 

CHAPTEE VII. 

OF CASES WITHOUT PBOCESS. 

47. If a person commits an offence in the presence of 
a judicatory, or comes forward as his own accuser and 
makes known his offence, the judicatory may proceed to 
judgment without process, giving the offender an oppor- 
tunity to be heard; and in the case first named he may 
demand a delay of at least two days before judgment. 
The record must show the nature of the offence, as well as 
the judgment and the reasons therefor, and appeal may 
be taken from the judgment as in other cases. 

48. If a communicant, not chargeable with immoral 
conduct, inform the Session that he is fully persuaded 
that he has no right to come to the Lord's Table, the 
Session shall confer with him on the subject, and may, 
should he continue of the same mind, and his attendance 
on the other means of grace be regular, excuse him from 
attendance on the Lord's Supper; and, after fully sat- 
isfying themselves that his judgment is not the result of 
mistaken views, shall erase his name from the roll of com- 
municants, and make record of their action in the case. 

49. If a communicant, not chargeable with immoral 
conduct, removes out of the bounds of his Church, with- 
out asking for or receiving a regular certificate of dismis- 
sion to another Church, and his residence is known, the 
Session may, within two years, advise him to apply for 
such certificate ; and, if he fails so to do, without giving 
sufficient reason, his name may be placed on the roll of 
suspended members, until he shall satisfy the Session of 
the propriety of his restoration. But, if the Session has 
no knowledge of him for the space of three years, it may 
erase his name from the roll of communicants, making 
record of its action and the reasons therefor. In either 
case, the member shall continue subject to the jurisdiction 
of the Session. A separate roll of all such names shall 
be kept, stating the relations of each to the Church. 

50. If any communicant, not chargeable with immoral 



DISCIPLINE. 333 

conduct, neglects the ordinances of the Church for one 
year, and in circumstances such as the Session shall re- 
gard to be a serious injury to the cause of religion, he 
may, after affectionate visitation by the Session, and admo- 
nition if need be, be suspended from the communion of 
the Church until he gives satisfactory evidence of the sin- 
cerity of his repentance, but he shall not be excommu- 
nicated without due process of discipline. 

51. If a Minister, otherwise in good standing, shall 
make application to be released from the office of the min- 
istry, he may, at the discretion of the Presbytery, be put 
on probation, for one year at least, in such a manner 
as the Presbytery may direct, in order to ascertain his 
motives and reasons for such a relinquishment. And if, 
at the end of this period, the Presbytery be satisfied that 
he cannot be useful and happy in the exercise of his min- 
istry, they may allow him to demit the office, and return 
to the condition of a private member in the Church, 
ordering his name to be stricken from the roll of the 
Presbytery, and giving him a letter to any Church with 
which he may desire to connect himself. 

52. If a communicant renounces the communion of this 
Church by joining another denomination, without a regu- 
lar dismission, although such conduct is disorderly, the 
Session shall take no other action in the case than to re- 
cord the fact, and order his name to be erased from the 
roll. If charges are pending against him, these charges 
may be prosecuted. 

53. If a Minister, not otherwise chargeable with an 
offence, renounces the jurisdiction of this Church, by 
abandoning the ministry, or becoming independent, or 
joining another denomination not deemed heretical, 
without a regular dismission, the Presbytery shall take no 
other action than to record the fact and to erase his name 
from the roll. If charges are pending against him, he 
may be tried thereon. If it appears that he has joined 
another denomination deemed heretical, he may be sus- 
pended, deposed, or excommunicated. 



334 DISCIPLINE. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

OF EVIDENCE. 

54. Judicatories ought to be very careful and impar- 
tial in receiving testimony. Not every person is com- 
petent, and not every competent person is credible, as a 
witness. 

55. All persons, whether parties or otherwise, are com- 
petent witnesses, except such as do not believe in the 
existence of God, or a future state of rewards and pun- 
ishments, or have not sufficient intelligence to understand 
the obligation of an oath. Any witness may be chal- 
lenged for incompetency, and the judicatory shall decide 
the question. 

56. The credibility of a witness, or the degree of credit 
due to his testimony, may be affected by relationship to 
any of the parties ; by interest in the result of the trial ; 
by want of proper age; by weakness of understanding; 
by infamy or malignity of character; by being under 
church censure ; by general rashness or indiscretion ; or 
by any other circumstances that appear to affect his vera- 
city, knowledge, or interest in the case. 

51. A husband or wife shall be a competent witness for 
or against the other, but shall not be compelled to testify. 

58. Evidence may be oral, written or printed, direct or 
circumstantial. A charge may be proven by the testimony 
of one witness, only when supported by other evidence ; 
but, when there are several specifications under the same 
general charge, the proof of two or more of the specifica- 
tions, by different credible witnesses, shall be sufficient to 
establish the charge. 

59. No witness afterwards to be examined, except a 
member of the judicatory, shall be present during the 
examination of another witness if either party object. 

60. Witnesses shall be examined first by the party pro- 
ducing them ; then cross-examined by the opposite party ; 
after which any member of the judicatory or either party 



DISCIPLINE. 335 

may put additional interrogatories. Irrelevant or frivo- 
lous questions shall not be admitted, nor leading questions 
by the parties producing the witness, except under permis- 
sion of the judicatory as necessary to elicit the truth. 

61. The oath or affirmation shall be administered by 
the Moderator in the following, or like, terms : " You sol- 
emnly promise, in the presence of the omniscient and 
heart-searching God, that you will declare the truth, the 
whole truth, and nothing but the truth, according to the 
best of your knowledge, in the matter in which you are 
called to testify, as you shall answer to the Great Judge 
of quick and dead." 

62. Every question put to a witness shall, if required, 
be reduced to writing. And, if either party desire it, or 
if the judicatory shall so decide, both question and answer 
shall be recorded. The testimony, thus recorded, shall be 
read to the witnesses, in the presence of the judicatory, 
for their approbation and subscription. 

63. The records of a judicatory, or any part of them, 
whether original or transcribed, if regularly authenticated 
by the Clerk, or in case of his death, absence, disability, 
or failure from any cause, by the Moderator, shall be 
deemed good and sufficient evidence in every other judi- 
catory. 

64. In like manner, testimony taken by one judicatory, 
and regularly certified, shall be received by every other 
judicatory, as no less valid than if it had been taken by 
themselves. 

65. Any judicatory, before which a case may be pend- 
ing, shall have power, whenever the necessity of parties 
or of witnesses shall require it, to appoint, on the applica- 
tion of either party, a Commission of Ministers, or Elders, 
or both, to examine witnesses ; which Commission, if the 
case requires it, may be of persons within the jurisdic- 
tion of another body. The Commissioners so appointed 
shall take such testimony as may be offered by either party. 
The testimony shall be taken in accordance with the rules 
governing the judicatory, either orally or on written inter- 



336 DISCIPLINE. 

rogatories and cross-interrogatories, duly settled by the 
judicatory, due notice having been given of the time 
when, and place where, the witnesses are to be examined. 
All questions, as to the relevancy or competency of the 
testimony so taken, shall be determined by the judicatory. 
The testimony, properly authenticated by the signatures 
of the Commissioners, shall be transmitted, in due time, 
to the Clerk of the judicatory before which the case is 
pending. 

66. A member of the judicatory may be called upon to 
testify in a case which comes before it. He shall be quali- 
fied as other witnesses are, and, after having given his 
testimony, may immediately resume his seat as a mem- 
ber of the judicatory. 

67. A member of the Church, summoned as a witness, 
and refusing to appear, or, having appeared, refusing to 
testify, shall be censured according to the circumstances 
of the case for his contumacy. 

68. If, after a trial before any judicatory, new evidence 
is discovered, supposed to be important to the exculpation 
of the accused, he may ask, if the case has not been ap- 
pealed, and the judicatory shall grant, if justice seems to 
require it, a new trial. 

69. If, in the prosecution of an appeal, new evidence 
is offered, which, in the judgment of the appellate judi- 
catory, has an important bearing on the case, it shall 
either refer the whole case to the inferior judicatory for 
a new trial ; or, with the consent of the parties, take the 
testimony, and hear and determine the case. 



CHAPTER IX. 



OF THE WAYS IN WHICH A CA USE MAY BE CARRIED FROM 
A LOWER TO A HIGHER JUDICATORY. 

70. All proceedings of the Session, the Presbytery, 
and the Synod (except as limited by Chapter XL, Sec- 



DISCIPLINE. 337 

tion 4, of the Form of Government), are subject to review 
by, and may be taken to, a superior judicatory, by Gene- 
ral Review and Control, Reference, Complaint, or Appeal. 

I. OF GENERAL REVIEW AND CONTROL. 

71. All proceedings of the Church shall be reported to, 
and reviewed by, the Session, and by its order incorpo- 
rated with its Records. Every judicatory above a Session 
shall review, at least once a year, the records of the pro- 
ceedings of the judicatory next below; and, if the lower 
judicatory shall omit to send up its records for this pur- 
pose, the higher may require them to be produced, either 
immediately, or at a specified time, as circumstances may 
determine. 

72. In such review, the judicatory shall examine, first, 
whether the proceedings have been correctly recorded; 
second, whether they have been constitutional and reg- 
ular ; and, third, whether they have been wise, equitable, 
and for the edification of the Church. 

73. Members of a judicatory, the records of which are 
under review, shall not be allowed to vote thereon. 

74. In most cases the superior judicatory may discharge 
its duty, by simply placing on its own records, and on those 
under review, the censure which it may pass. But irreg- 
ular proceedings may be found so disreputable and inju- 
rious, that the inferior judicatory must be required to 
review and correct, or reverse them, and report, within 
a specified time, its obedience to the order : provided, how- 
ever, that no judicial decision shall be reversed, unless 
regularly taken up by appeal or complaint. 

75. If a judicatory is, at any time, well advised of any 
unconstitutional proceedings of a lower judicatory, the 
latter shall be cited to appear, at a specified time and 
place, to produce the records, and to show what it has 
done in the matter in question ; after which, if the charge 
is sustained, the whole matter shall be concluded by the 
judicatory itself, or be remitted to the lower judicatory, 
with directions as to its disposition. 

22 



338 DISCIPLINE. 

76. Judicatories may sometimes neglect to perform their 
duty, by which neglect heretical opinions or corrupt prac- 
tices may be allowed to gain ground, or offenders of a gross 
character may be suffered to escape ; or some part of their 
proceedings may have been omitted from the record, or not 
properly recorded. If, therefore, at any time, the superior 
judicatory is well advised of such neglects, omissions, or 
irregularities on the part of the inferior judicatory, it may 
require its records to be produced, and shall either proceed 
to examine and decide the whole matter, as completely as 
if proper record had been made ; or it shall cite the lower 
judicatory, and proceed as in the next preceding section. 

II. OF REFERENCES. 

77. A Keference is a representation in writing, made by 
an inferior to a superior judicatory, of a judicial case not 
yet decided. Generally, however, it is more conducive 
to the public good that each judicatory should fulfill its 
duty by exercising its own judgment. 

78. Cases which are new, important, difficult, or of 
peculiar delicacy, the decision of which may establish 
principles or precedents of extensive influence, on which 
the inferior judicatory is greatly divided, or on which for 
any reason it is desirable that a superior judicatory should 
first decide, are proper subjects of Reference. 

79. Eeferences are, either for mere advice, preparatory 
to a decision by the inferior judicatory, or for ultimate 
trial and decision by the superior ; and are to be carried 
to the next higher judicatory. If for advice, the Refer- 
ence only suspends the decision of the inferior judica- 
tory; if for trial, it submits the whole case to the final 
judgment of the superior. 

80. In cases of Reference, members of the inferior judi- 
catory may sit, deliberate, and vote. 

81. A judicatory is not necessarily bound to give a final 
judgment in a case of Reference, but may remit the whole 
case, either with or without advice, to the inferior judi- 
catory. 



Ch. IX.] DISCIPLINE. 339 

82. The whole record of proceedings shall be promptly 
transmitted to the superior judicatory, and, if the Eefer- 
ence is accepted, the parties shall be heard. 

III. OF COMPLAINTS. 

83. A Complaint is a written representation, made to 
the next superior judicatory, by one or more persons sub- 
ject and submitting to the jurisdiction of the judicatory 
complained of, respecting any delinquency, or any decis- 
ion, by an inferior judicatory. 

84. Written notice of Complaint, with the reasons there- 
for, shall be given, within ten days after the action was 
taken, to the Clerk, or, in case of his death, absence, or 
disability, to the Moderator, of the judicatory complained 
of, who shall lodge it, with the records and all the papers 
pertaining to the case, with the Clerk of the superior judi- 
catory, before the close of the second day of its regular 
meeting next ensuing the date of the reception of said 
notice. 

85. Whenever a Complaint, in cases non-judicial, is 
entered against a decision of a judicatory, signed by at 
least one-third of the members recorded as present when 
the action was taken, the execution of such decision shall 
be stayed, until the final issue of the case by the superior 
judicatory. 

86. The complainant shall lodge his Complaint, and 
the reasons therefor, with the Clerk of the superior judi- 
catory before the close of the second day of its meeting 
next ensuing the date of the notice thereof. 

87. If the higher judicatory finds that the Complaint 
is in order, and that sufficient reasons for proceeding to 
trial have been assigned, the next step shall be to read 
the record of the action complained of, and so much of 
the record of the lower judicatory as may be pertinent ; 
then the parties shall be heard, and, after that, the judi- 
catory shall proceed to consider and determine the case, 
as provided for in cases of original process. In cases of 
Complaint involving a judicial decision, proceedings in 



340 DISCIPLINE. 

an appellate judicatory shall be had in the order and as 
provided in Section 99, Chapter IV., entitled " Of Ap- 
peals." 

88. The effect of a Complaint, if sustained, may be the 
reversal, in whole or in part, of the action of the lower 
judicatory; and may also, in cases non-judicial, be the 
infliction of censure upon the judicatory complained of. 
When a Complaint is sustained, the lower judicatory shall 
be directed how to dispose of the matter. 

89. The parties to a Complaint, in cases non-judicial, 
shall be known, respectively, as Complainant and Re- 
spondent — the latter being the judicatory complained of, 
which should always be represented by one or more of its 
number appointed for that purpose, who may be assisted by 
counsel. 

90. Neither the Complainant nor the members of the 
judicatory complained of shall sit, deliberate, or vote in 
the case. 

91. Either of the parties to a Complaint may appeal to 
the next superior judicatory, except as limited by Chapter 
XI., Section 4, of the Form of Government. 

92. The judicatory against which a Complaint is made 
shall send up its records, and all the papers relating to 
the matter of the Complaint, and filed with the record ; 
and, for failure to do this, it shall be censured by the 
superior judicatory, which shall have power to make such 
orders, pending the production of the records and papers, 
and the determination of the Complaint, as may be neces- 
sary to preserve the rights of all the parties. 

93. If a case should be carried to an appellate judica- 
tory by both Appeal and Complaint, the same shall be 
consolidated for trial, if deemed proper by the appellate 
judicatory. If the Appeal be abandoned, the case shall 
be heard only on the Complaint. 

V 

IV. OF APPEALS. 

94. An Appeal is the removal of a judicial case, by a 
written representation, from an inferior to a superior judi- 



Ch. IX.] DISCIPLINE. 341 

catory ; and may be taken, by either of the original par- 
ties, from the final judgment of the lower judicatory. 
These parties shall be called Appellant and Appellee. 

95. The grounds of Appeal may be such as these : Ir- 
regularity in the proceedings of the inferior judicatory ; 
refusal to entertain an Appeal or Complaint ; refusal of 
reasonable indulgence to a party on trial ; receiving im- 
proper, or declining to receive important, testimony ; has- 
tening to a decision before the testimony is fully taken ; 
manifestation of prejudice in the conduct of the case; 
and mistake or injustice in the decision. 

96. Written notice of Appeal, with specifications of 
the errors alleged, shall be given, within ten days after 
the judgment has been rendered, to the Clerk, or, in case 
of his death, absence, or disability, to the Moderator, of 
the judicatory appealed from, who shall lodge it, with 
the records and all the papers pertaining to the case, with 
the Clerk of the superior judicatory, before the close of 
the second day of its regular meeting next ensuing the 
date of his reception of said notice. 

97. The appellant shall appear in person or by counsel 
before the judicatory appealed to, on or before the close 
of the second day of its regular meeting next ensuing 
the date of the filing of his notice of Appeal, and shall 
lodge his Appeal and specifications of the errors alleged, 
with the Clerk of the superior judicatory, within the time 
above specified. If he fail to show to the satisfaction of 
the judicatory that he was unavoidably prevented from 
so doing, he shall be considered as having abandoned his 
Appeal, and the judgment shall stand. 

98. Neither the appellant, nor the members of the 
judicatory appealed from, shall sit, deliberate, or vote 
in the case. 

99. When due notice of an Appeal has been given, 
and the Appeal and the specifications of the errors alleged 
have been filed in due time, the Appeal shall be consid- 
ered in order. The judgment, the notice of Appeal, the 
Appeal, and the specifications of the errors alleged, shall 



342 DISCIPLINE. 

be read ; and the judicatory may then determine, after 
hearing the parties, whether the Appeal shall be enter- 
tained. If it be entertained, the following order shall 
be observed : 

(1) The record in the case, from the beginning, shall 
be read, except what may be omitted by consent. 

(2) The parties shall be heard, the appellant opening 
and closing. 

(3) Opportunity shall be given to the members of the 
judicatory appealed from to be heard. 

(4) Opportunity shall be given to the members of the 
superior judicatory to be heard. 

(5) The vote shall then be separately taken, without 
debate, on each specification of error alleged, the ques- 
tion being taken in the form : " Shall the specification 
of error be sustained?" If no one of the specifications 
be sustained, and no error be found by the judicatory in 
the record, the judgment of the inferior judicatory shall 
be affirmed. If one or more errors be found, the judica- 
tory shall determine, whether the judgment of the inferior 
judicatory shall be reversed or modified, or the case re- 
manded for a new trial ; and the judgment, accompanied 
by a recital of the error or errors found, shall be entered 
on the record. If the judicatory deem it wise, an ex- 
planatory minute may be adopted which shall be a part 
of the record of the case. 

100. When the judgment directs admonition or rebuke, 
notice of Appeal shall suspend all further proceedings; 
but in other cases the judgments shall be in force until 
the Appeal is decided. 

101. The judicatory whose judgment is appealed from 
shall send up its records, and all the papers relating there- 
to, and filed with the record. If it fails to do this, it shall 
be censured; and the sentence appealed from shall be 
suspended, until a record is produced on which the issue 
can be fairly tried. 

102. Appeals are, generally, to be taken to the judica- 
tory immediately superior to that appealed from. 



DISCIPLINE. 343 

CHAPTER X. 

OF DISSENTS AND PROTESTS. 

103. A Dissent is a declaration of one or more mem- 
bers of a minority in a judicatory, expressing disagree- 
ment with a decision of the majority in a particular case. 

104. A Protest is a more formal declaration, made by 
one or more members of a minority, bearing testimony 
against what is deemed a mischievous or erroneous pro- 
ceeding, decision, or judgment, and including a statement 
of the reasons therefor. 

105. If a Dissent or Protest be couched in decorous 
and respectful language, and be without offensive reflec- 
tions or insinuations against the majority, it shall be 
entered on the records. 

106. The judicatory may prepare an answer to any pro- 
test which imputes to it principles or reasonings which 
its action does not import, and the answer shall also be 
entered upon the records. Leave may thereupon be given 
to the protestant or protestants, if they desire it, to modify 
their Protest; and the answer of the judicatory may also, 
in consequence, be modified. This shall end the matter. 

107. No one shall be allowed to dissent or protest who 
has not a right to vote on the question decided, — and, in 
judicial cases, no one shall be allowed to dissent or pro- 
test who did not vote against the decision. 



CHAPTEE XI. 

OF JURISDICTION IN CASES OF DISMISSION. 

108. The judicatory, to which a church member or a 
Minister belongs, shall have sole jurisdiction for the trial 
of offences whenever or wherever committed by him. 

109. A member of a Church, receiving a certificate of 
dismission to another Church, shall continue to be a mem- 
ber of the Church giving him the certificate, and subject 
to the jurisdiction of its Session (but shall not deliberate 



344 DISCIPLINE. 

or vote in a church meeting, nor exercise the functions of 
any office), until he has become a member of the Church 
to which he is recommended, or some other evangelical 
Church ; and, should he return the certificate, within a 
year from its date, the Session shall make record of the 
fact, but he shall not thereby be restored to the exercise 
of the functions of any office previously held by him in 
that Church. 

110. In like manner, a Minister shall be subject to the 
jurisdiction of the Presbytery which dismissed him (but 
shall not deliberate or vote, nor be counted in the basis of 
representation to the General Assembly), until he actually 
becomes a member of another Presbytery ; but, should he 
return the certificate of dismission within a year from its 
date, the Presbytery shall make record of the fact, and 
restore him to the full privileges of membership. 

111. A Presbytery, giving a certificate of dismission to 
a Minister,. Licentiate, or Candidate for licensure, shall 
specify the particular body to which he is recommended ; 
and, if recommended to a Presbytery, no other than the 
one designated, if existing, shall receive him. 

112. If a Church becomes extinct, the Presbytery with 
which it was connected shall have jurisdiction over its 
members, and grant them letters of dismission to some 
other Church. It shall, also, determine any case of dis- 
cipline begun by the Session and not concluded. 

113. If a Presbytery becomes extinct, the Synod, with 
which it was connected, shall have jurisdiction over its 
members, and may transfer them to any Presbytery within 
its bounds. It shall, also, determine any case of disci- 
pline begun by the Presbytery and not concluded. 



CHAPTEE XII. 

OF REMOVALS, AND LIMITATION OF TIME. 

114. When any member shall remove from one Church 
to another, he shall produce a certificate, ordinarily not 



DISCIPLINE. 345 

more than one year old, of bis church- membership and 
dismission, before he shall be admitted as a regular mem- 
ber of that Church. 

The names of the baptized children of a parent seek- 
ing dismission to another Church shall, if such children 
are members of his household and remove with him and 
are not themselves communicants, be included in the cer- 
tificate of dismission. The certificate shall be addressed 
to a particular Church, and the fact of the reception of 
the person or persons named in it shall be promptly com- 
municated to the Church which gave it. 

115. In like maimer, when a Minister, Licentiate, or 
Candidate, is dismissed from one Presbytery to another, 
the certificate shall be presented to the Presbytery to 
which it is addressed, ordinarily within one year from 
its date, and the fact of his reception shall be promptly 
communicated to the Presbytery dismissing him. 

116. If a church-member, more than two years absent 
from the place of his ordinary residence and Church 
connections, applies for a certificate of membership, his 
absence, and the knowledge of the Church respecting his 
demeanor for that time, or its want of information con- 
cerning it, shall be distinctly stated in the certificate. 

117. Prosecution for an alleged offence shall commence 
within one year from the time of its alleged commission 
or from the date when it becomes known to the judica- 
tory which has jurisdiction thereof. 



CHAPTEE XIII. 

OF JUDICIAL COMMISSIONS. 

118. The General Assembly, and each Synod under its 
care, shall have power to appoint a Judicial Commission 
from their respective bodies, consisting of ministers and 
elders, in number not less than a quorum of the judica- 
tory appointing. 



346 DISCIPLINE. 

All judicial cases may be submitted to this Commission, 
and its decisions shall be final, except in matters of law, 
which shall be referred to the appointing court for final 
adjudication; and also all matters of Constitution and 
Doctrine, which may be reviewed in the appointing body, 
and upon final adjudication by the General Assembly. 
The Commission shall sit at the same time and place as 
the body appointing it, and its findings shall be entered 
upon the minutes of such body. 



THE 

DIRECTORY 



WORSHIP OF GOD IN THE PEESBYTEKIAN CHUECH 
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA * 



AS AMENDED, 1789-1886. 



CHAPTER I. 

OF THE SANCTIFICATION OF THE LORD'S DAY. 

I. It is the duty of every person to remember the 
Lord's day ; and to prepare for it, before its approach. 
All worldly business should be so ordered, and season- 
ably laid aside, as that we may not be hindered thereby 
from sanctifying the Sabbath, as the Holy Scriptures 
require. 

II. The whole day is to be kept wholly to the Lord ; 
and to be employed in the public and private exercises 
of religion. Therefore, it is requisite, that there be a 
holy resting, all the day, from unnecessary labors; and 
an abstaining from those recreations which may be law- 
ful on other days; and also, as much as possible, from 
worldly thoughts and conversation. 

III. Let the provisions for the support of the family 

* The Scripture-warrant for what is specified in the various articles 
of this Directory, will be found at large in the Confession of Faith and 
Catechisms, in the places where the subjects are treated in a doctrinal 
form. 

347 



348 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

on that day, be so ordered, that servants or others be not 
improperly detained from the public worship of God ; noi 
hindered from sanctifying the Sabbath. 

IV. Let every person and family, in the morning, by 
secret and private prayer, for themselves and others, espe- 
cially for the assistance of God to their minister, and for 
a blessing upon his ministry; by reading the Scriptures, 
and by holy meditation ; prepare for communion with 
God in his public ordinances. 

V. Let the people be careful to assemble at the ap- 
pointed time; that, being all present at the beginning, 
they may unite, with one heart, in all the parts of public 
worship : and let none unnecessarily depart, till after the 
blessing be pronounced. 

VI. Let the time after the solemn services of the con- 
gregation in public are over, be spent in reading; medita- 
tion ; repeating of sermons ; catechising ; religious con- 
versation ; prayer for a blessing upon the public ordi- 
nances ; the singing of psalms, hymns, or spiritual songs ; 
visiting the sick ; relieving the poor ; and in performing 
such like duties of piety, charity, and mercy. 



CHAPTER II. 



OF THE ASSEMBLING OF THE CONGREGATION AND THEIR 
BEHAVIOR DURING DIVINE SERVICE. 

I. When the time appointed for public worship is 
come, let the people enter the church, and take their 
seats in a decent, grave, and reverent manner. 

II. In time of public worship, let all the people attend 
with gravity and reverence; forbearing to read any thing, 
except what the minister is then reading or citing ; ab- 
staining from all whisperings; from salutations of persons 
present, or coming in; and from gazing about, sleeping, 
smiling, and all other indecent behavior. 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 349 

CHAPTER III. 

OF THE PUBLIC READING OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES. 

I. The reading the Holy Scriptures, in the congrega- 
tion, is a part of the public worship of God, and ought to 
be performed by the ministers and teachers. 

II. The Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament, 
shall be publicly read, from the most approved translation, 
in the vulgar tongue, that all may hear and understand. 

III. How large a portion shall be read at once, is left 
to the discretion of every minister : however, in each ser- 
vice, he ought to read, at least, one chapter; and more, 
when the chapters are short, or the connection requires it. 
He may, when he thinks it expedient, expound any part 
of what is read : always having regard to the time, that 
neither reading, singing, praying, preaching, or any other 
ordinance, be disproportionate the one to the other; nor 
the whole rendered too short, or too tedious. 



CHAPTER IV. 

OF THE SINGING OF PSALMS. 

I. It is the duty of Christians to praise God, by sing- 
ing psalms, or hymns, publicly in the church, as also pri- 
vately in the family. 

II. In singing the praises of God, we are to sing with 
the spirit, and with the understanding also ; making mel- 
ody in our hearts unto the Lord. It is also proper, that 
we cultivate some knowledge of the rules of music ; that 
we may praise God in a becoming manner with our voices, 
as well as with our hearts. 

III. The whole congregation should be furnished with 
books, and ought to join in this part of worship. It is 
proper to sing without parceling out the psalm, line by 
line. The practice of reading the psalm, line by line, was 



350 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

introduced in times of ignorance, when many in the con- 
gregation could not read : therefore, it is recommended, 
that it be laid aside, as far as convenient. 

IV. The proportion of the time of public worship to 
be spent in singing, is left to the prudence of every min- 
ister : but it is recommended, that more time be allowed 
for this excellent part of divine service thai* has been 
usual in most of our churches. 



CHAPTEE V. 

OF PUBLIC PRAYER. 



I. It seems very proper to begin the public worship of 
the sanctuary by a short prayer : humbly adoring the in- 
finite majesty of the living God; expressing a sense ol our 
distance from him as creatures, and un worthiness as sin- 
ners ; and humbly imploring his gracious presence, the 
assistance of his Holy Spirit in the duties of his worship, 
and his acceptance of us through the merits of our Lord 
and Saviour Jesus Christ. 

II. Then, after singing a psalm, or hymn, it is proper 
that, before sermon, there should be a full and compre- 
hensive prayer : First, Adoring the glory and perfections 
of God, as they are made known to us in the works of 
creation, in the conduct of providence, and in the clear 
and full revelation he hath made of himself in his written 
word : Second, Giving thanks to him for all his mercies of 
every kind, general and particular, spiritual and temporal, 
common and special; above all, for Christ Jesus, his un- 
speakable gift, and the hope of eternal life through him : 
Third, Making humble confession of sin, both original and 
actual ; acknowledging, and endeavoring to impress the 
mind of every worshiper, with a deep sense of the evil 
of all sin, as such ; as being a departure from the living 
God ; and also taking a particular and affecting view of 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 351 

the various fruits which proceed from this root of bitter- 
ness : — as sins against God, our neighbor, and ourselves ; 
sins in thought, in word, and in deed ; sins secret and pre- 
sumptuous ; sins accidental and habitual. Also, the aggra- 
vations of sin, arising from knowledge, or the means of it ; 
from distinguishing mercies ; from valuable privileges ; 
from breach of vows, etc. : Fourth, Making earnest sup- 
plication for the pardon of sin, and peace with God, 
through the blood of the atonement, w T ith all its import- 
ant and happy fruits ; for the Spirit of sanctification, and 
abundant supplies of the grace that is necessary to the 
discharge of our duty ; for support and comfort, under all 
the trials to which we are liable, as we are sinful and 
mortal ; and for all temporal mercies that may be neces- 
sary, in our passage through this valley of tears : always 
remembering to view them as flowing in the channel of 
covenant love, and intended to be subservient to the pres- 
ervation and progress of the spiritual life : Fifth, Plead- 
ing from every principle warranted in Scripture : from our 
own necessity ; the all-sufficiency of God ; the merit and 
intercession of our Saviour ; and the glory of God in the 
comfort and happiness of his people : Sixth, Intercession 
for others, including the whole world of mankind; the 
kingdom of Christ, or his church universal; the church 
or churches with which we are more particularly con- 
nected; the interest of human society in general, and in 
that community to which we immediately belong ; all that 
are invested with civil authority; the ministers of the 
everlasting gospel ; and the rising generation : with what- 
ever else, more particular, may seem necessary, or suitable, 
to the interest of that congregation where divine worship 
is celebrated. 

III. Prayer after sermon, ought generally to have a 
relation to the subject that has been treated of in the dis- 
course ; and all other public prayers, to the circumstances 
that gave occasion for them. 

IV. It is easy to perceive, that in all the preceding direc- 
tions there is a very great compass and variety ; and it is 



352 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

committed to the judgment and fidelity of the officiating 
pastor to insist chiefly on such parts, or to take in more 
or less of the several parts, as he shall be led to by the 
aspect of Providence ; the particular state of the congre- 
gation in which he officiates ; or the disposition and exer- 
cise of his own heart at the time. But we think it neces- 
sary to observe, that although we do not approve, as is 
well known, of confining ministers to set or fixed forms 
of prayer for public worship ; yet it is the indispensable 
duty of every minister, previously to his entering on his 
office, to prepare and qualify himself for this part of his 
duty, as well as for preaching. He ought, by a thorough 
acquaintance with the Holy Scriptures, by reading the 
best writers on the subject, by meditation, and by a life 
of communion with God in secret, to endeavor to acquire 
both the spirit and the gift of prayer. Not only so, but 
when he is to enter on particular acts of worship, he should 
endeavor to compose his spirit, and to digest his thoughts 
for prayer, that it may be performed with dignity and pro- 
priety, as well as to the profit of those who join in it ; and 
that he may not disgrace that important service by mean, 
irregular, or extravagant effusions. 



CHAPTEE VI. 

OF THE WORSHIP OF GOD BY OFFERINGS. 

I. In order that every member of the congregation may 
be trained to give of his substance systematically, and as 
the Lord has prospered him, to promote the preaching of 
the Gospel in all the world and to every creature, accord- 
ing to the command of the Lord Jesus Christ, it is proper 
and very desirable that an opportunity be given for offer- 
ings by the congregations in this behalf every Lord's day, 
and that, in accordance with the Scriptures, the bringing 
of such offerings be performed as a solemn act of worship 
to almighty God. 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 353 

II. The proper order, both as to the particular service 
of the day and the place in such service for receiving the 
offerings, may be left to the discretion of the minister and 
session of the church ; but that it may be a separate and 
specific act of worship, the minister should either precede 
or immediately follow the same with a brief prayer, in- 
voking the blessing of God upon it and devoting the 
offerings to his service. 

III. The offerings received may be apportioned among 
the Boards of the Church and among other benevolent 
and Christian objects, under the supervision of the church 
session, in such proportion and upon such general plan 
as may from time to time be determined ; but the specific 
designation by the giver of any offering to any cause or 
causes, shall always be respected, and the will of the donor 
carefully carried out. 

IV. It is the duty of every minister to cultivate the 
grace of liberal giving in his congregation, that every mem- 
ber thereof may offer according to his ability, whether it 
be much or little. 



CHAPTER VII. 

OF THE PREACHING OF THE WORD. 

I. The preaching of the word being an institution of 
God for the salvation of men, great attention should be 
paid to the manner of performing it. Every minister 
ought to give diligent application to it ; and endeavor to 
prove himself a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, 
rightly dividing the word of truth. 

II. The subject of a sermon should be some verse or 
verses of Scripture: and its object, to explain, defend 
and apply some part of the system of divine truth ; or, to 
point out the nature, and state the bounds and obligation, 
of some duty. A text should not be merely a motto, but 
should fairly contain the doctrine proposed to be handled. 

23 



354 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

It is proper also that large portions of Scripture be some- 
times expounded, and particularly improved, for the in- 
struction of the people in the meaning and use of the 
Sacred Oracles. 

III. The method of preaching requires much study, 
meditation, and prayer. Ministers ought, in general, to 
prepare their sermons with care ; and not to indulge them- 
selves in loose, extemporary harangues ; nor to serve God 
with that which cost them naught. They ought, however, 
to keep to the simplicity of the gospel : expressing them- 
selves in language agreeable to Scripture, and level to the 
understanding of the meanest of their hearers ; carefully 
avoiding ostentation, either of parts or learning. They 
ought also to adorn, by their lives, the doctrine which 
they teach ; and to be examples to the believers, in 
word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in 
purity. 

IV. As one primary design of public ordinances is to 
pay social acts of homage to the most high God, ministers 
ought to be careful not to make their sermons so long as 
to interfere with or exclude the more important duties of 
prayer and praise ; but preserve a just proportion between 
the several parts of public worship. 

V. The sermon being ended, the minister is to pray, and 
return thanks to almighty God : then let a psalm be sung, 
and the assembly dismissed with the apostolic benediction. 

VI. It is expedient that no person be introduced to 
preach in any of the churches under our care, unless 
by the consent of the pastor or church session. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF BAPTISM. 

I. Baptism is not to be unnecessarily delayed ; nor to 
be administered, in any case, by any private person ; but 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 355 

by a minister of Christ, called to be the steward of the 
mysteries of God. 

II. It is usually to be administered in the church, in 
the presence of the congregation; and it is convenient 
that it be performed immediately after sermon. 

III. After previous notice is given to the minister, the 
child to be baptized is to be presented, by one or both 
the parents, signifying their desire that the child may be 
baptized. 

IV. Before baptism, let the minister use some words 
of instruction, respecting the institution, nature, use, and 
ends of this ordinance ; showing, 

" That it is instituted by Christ ; that it is a seal of the 
" righteousness of faith : that the seed of the faithful have 
"no less a right to this ordinance, under the gospel, than 
"the seed of Abraham to circumcision, under the Old 
" Testament ; that Christ commanded all nations to be 
"baptized; that he blessed little children, declaring that 
"of such is the kingdom of heaven; that children are 
" federally holy, and therefore ought to be baptized ; that 
" we are, by nature, sinful, guilty, and polluted, and have 
"need of cleansing by the blood of Christ, and by the 
" sanctifying influences of the Spirit of God." 

The minister is also to exhort the parents to the care- 
ful performance of their duty : requiring, 

" That they teach the child to read the word of God ; 
" that they instruct it in the principles of our holy relig- 
" ion, as contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New 
" Testament ; an excellent summary of which we have in 
" the Confession of Faith of this church, and in the Larger 
"and Shorter Catechisms of the Westminster Assembly, 
" which are to be recommended to them, as adopted by 
" this church, for their direction and assistance, in the dis- 
" charge of this important duty ; that they pray with and 
" for it ; that they set an example of piety and godliness 
" before it, and endeavor, by all the means of God's ap- 
" pointment, to bring up their child in the nurture and 
" admonition of the Lord." 



356 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

V. Then the minister is to pray for a blessing to attend 
this ordinance ; after which, calling the child by its name ; 
he shall say, 

" I baptize thee, in the name of the Father, and of the 
" Son, and of the Holy Ghost." 

As he pronounces these words, he is to baptize the child 
with water, by pouring or sprinkling it on the face of the 
child, without adding any other ceremony : and the whole 
shall be concluded with prayer. 

Although it is proper that baptism be administered in 
the presence of the congregation : yet there may be cases 
when it will be expedient to administer this ordinance in 
private houses ; of which the minister is to be the judge. 



CHAPTER IX. 

OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

I. The communion, or supper of the Lord, is to be cele- 
brated frequently ; but how often, may be determined by 
the minister and eldership of each congregation, as they 
may judge most for edification. 

II. The ignorant and scandalous are not to be admitted 
to the Lord's supper. 

III. It is proper that public notice should be given to 
the congregation, at least the Sabbath before the admin- 
istration of this ordinance, and that, either then, or on some 
day of the week, the people be instructed in its nature, and 
a due preparation for it ; that all may come in a suitable 
manner to this holy feast. 

IV. When the sermon is ended, the minister shall show, 
" That this is an ordinance of Christ ; by reading the 

" words of institution, either from one of the evangelists, 
" or from 1 Cor. xi. chapter; which, as to him may appear 
" expedient, he may explain and apply ; that it is to be 
" observed in remembrance of Christ, to show forth his 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 357 

"death till he come ; and that it is of inestimable benefit, 
" to strengthen his people against sin ; to support them 
"under troubles ; to encourage and quicken them in duty ; 
" to inspire them with love and zeal ; to increase their 
" faith, and holy resolution ; and to beget peace of con- 
" science, and comfortable hopes of eternal life." 

He is to warn the profane, the ignorant, and scandalous, 
and those that secretly indulge themselves in any known 
sin, not to approach the holy table. On the other hand, 
he shall invite to this holy table, such as, sensible of their 
lost and helpless state of sin, depend upon the atonement 
of Christ for pardon and acceptance with God ; such as, 
being instructed in the gospel doctrine, have a competent 
knowledge to discern the Lord's body; and such as desire 
to renounce their sins, and are determined to lead a holy 
and godly life. 

V. The table, on which the elements are placed, being 
decently covered, the bread in convenient dishes, and the 
wine in cups, and the communicants orderly and gravely 
sitting around the table, (or in their seats before it,) in the 
presence of the minister ; let him set the elements apart, 
by prayer and thanksgiving. 

The bread and wine being thus set apart by prayer and 
thanksgiving, the minister is to take the bread, and break 
it, in the view of the people, saying, in expressions of this 
sort : — 

"Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the same night in which 
"he was betrayed, having taken bread, and blessed and 
" broken it, gave it to his disciples ; as I, ministering in his 
"name, give this bread unto you; saying, [here the bread 
"is to be distributed] Take, eat: this is my body, which 
" is broken for you : this do in remembrance of me." 

After having given the bread, he shall take the cup, 
and say — 

" After the same manner our Saviour also took the cup ; 
" and having given thanks, as hath been done in his name, 
" he gave it to the disciples ; saying, [while the minister is 
" repeating these words let him give the cup] This cup is 



358 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

" the new testament in my blood, which is shed for many, 
"for the remission of sins: drink ye all of it." 

The minister himself is to communicate, at such time 
as may appear to him most convenient. 

The minister may, in a few words, put the communi- 
cants in mind — 

" Of the grace of God, in Jesus Christ, held forth in 
" this sacrament ; and of their obligation to be the Lord's ; 
" and may exhort them to walk worthy of the vocation 
" wherewith they are called ; and, as they have professedly 
" received Christ Jesus the Lord, that they be careful so 
" to walk in him, and to maintain good works." 

It may not be improper for the minister to give a word 
of exhortation also to those who have been only specta- 
tors, reminding them — 

" Of their duty ; stating their sin and danger, by living 
" in disobedience to Christ, in neglecting this holy ordi- 
" nance ; and calling upon them to be earnest in making 
" preparation for attending upon it, at the next time of 
" its celebration." 

Then the minister is to pray and give thanks to God, 

"For his rich mercy, and invaluable goodness, vouch- 
" safed to them in that sacred communion ; to implore 
" pardon for the defects of the whole service ; and to pray 
" for the acceptance of their persons and performances ; 
" for the gracious assistance of the Holy Spirit, to enable 
" them, as they have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so to 
" walk in him ; that they may hold fast that which they 
" have received, that no man take their crown ; that their 
" conversation may be as becometh the gospel ; that they 
"may bear about with them, continually, the dying of the 
" Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be manifested 
" in their mortal body ; that their light may so shine be- 
" fore men, that others, seeing their good works, may glorify 
"their Father who is in heaven." 

The collection for the poor, and to defray the expense of 
the elements, may be made after this ; or at such other time 
as may seem meet to the eldership. 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 359 

Now let a psalm or hymn be sung, and the congregation 
dismissed, with the following or some other gospel bene- 
diction : 

" Now the God of peace, that brought again from the 
"dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 
" through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make 
"you perfect in every good work to do his will, work- 
" ing in you that which is well-pleasing in his sight, 
" through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and 
" ever. Amen." 

VI. As it has been customary, in some parts of our 
church, to observe a fast before the Lord's supper; to 
have a sermon on Saturday and Monday; and to invite 
two or three ministers on such occasions; and as these 
seasons have been blessed to many souls, and may tend 
to keep up a stricter union of ministers and congrega- 
tions ; we think it not improper that they who choose it 
may continue in this practice. 



CHAPTEE X. 

OF THE ADMISSION OF PERSONS TO SEALING ORDINANCES. 

I. Children, born within the pale of the visible church, 
and dedicated to God in baptism, are under the inspection 
and government of the church ; and are to be taught to 
read and repeat the catechism, the apostles' creed, and the 
Lord's prayer. They are to be taught to pray, to abhor 
sin, to fear God, and to obey the Lord Jesus Christ. And, 
when they come to years of discretion, if they be free from 
scandal, appear sober and steady, and to have sufficient 
knowledge to discern the Lord's body, they ought to be 
informed it is their duty and their privilege to come to 
the Lord's supper. 

II. The years of discretion, in young Christians, cannot 
be precisely fixed. This must be left to the prudence of 
the eldership. The officers of the church are the judges 



360 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

of the qualifications of those to be admitted to sealing 
ordinances; and of the time when it is proper to admit 
young Christians to them. 

III. Those who are to be admitted to sealing ordinances, 
shall be examined as to their knowledge and piety. 

IV. When unbaptized persons apply for admission into 
the church, they shall, in ordinary cases, after giving sat- 
isfaction with respect to their knowledge and piety, make 
a public profession of their faith, in the presence of the 
congregation ; and thereupon be baptized. 



CHAPTER XI. 

OF THE MODE OF INFLICTING AND BE MO VINO CENSURES. 

I. The power which Christ has given the rulers of his 
Church is for edification, and not destruction. When, 
therefore, a communicant shall have been found guilty 
of a fault deserving censure, the judicatory shall proceed 
with all tenderness, and restore the offending brother in 
the spirit of meekness, its members considering them- 
selves, lest they also be tempted. Censure ought to be 
inflicted with great solemnity : that it may be the means 
of impressing the mind of the delinquent with a proper 
sense of his sin ; and that, with the divine blessing, it 
may lead him to repentance. 

II. W T hen the judicatory has resolved to pass sentence, 
suspending a communicant from church privileges, the 
Moderator shall pronounce the sentence in the following 
form : 

" Whereas you have been found guilty [by your own con- 
"fession, or by sufficient proof, as the case may be] of the 
"sin of [here mention the particular offence], we declare 
"you suspended from the sacrament of the Lord's sup- 
"per, till you give satisfactory evidence of repentance.''* 

To this shall be added such advice, admonition, or re- 
buke, as may be judged necessary ; and the whole shall be 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 361 

concluded with prayer to Almighty God, that he would 
follow this act of discipline with his blessing. In gene- 
ral, such censure should be inflicted in the presence of the 
judicatory only; but, if the judicatory think it expedient 
to rebuke the offender publicly, this solemn suspension 
may be in the presence of the Church. 

III. After a person has been thus suspended, the Minis- 
ister and Elders should frequently converse with him, as 
well as pray for him in private, that it would please God 
to give him repentance. And, particularly on days prepar- 
atory to the dispensing of the Lord's Supper, the prayers 
of the Church should be offered up for those who have 
shut themselves out from this holy communion. 

IV. When the judicatory shall be satisfied as to the 
reality of the repentance of any suspended member, he 
shall be allowed to profess his repentance, and be restored 
to fellowship, in the presence of the Session, or of the 
Church. 

V. When a suspended person has failed to manifest 
repentance for his offence, and has continued in obsti- 
nate impenitence not less than a year, it may become 
the duty of the judicatory to excommunicate him with- 
out further trial. The design of excommunication is to 
operate upon the offender as a means of reclaiming him, 
to deliver the Church from the scandal of his offence, 
and to inspire all with fear by the example of his pun- 
ishment. 

VI. When a judgment of excommunication is to be ex- 
ecuted, with or without previous suspension, it is proper 
that the sentence be publicly pronounced against the 
offender. 

The Minister shall, therefore, at a regular meeting of 
the Church, make a brief statement of the several steps 
which have been taken, with respect to the offender, 
announcing that it has been found necessary to excom- 
municate him. 

He shall begin by showing (from Matt, xviii. 15, 16, 
17, 18; 1 Cor. v. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) the power of the Church 



362 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

to cast out unworthy members, and shall briefly explain 
the nature, use, and consequences of this censure. 

Then he shall pronounce the sentence in the follow- 
ing or like form, viz. : 

" Whereas A. B. hath been, by sufficient proof, con- 
victed of [here insert the sin\, and after much admonition 
and prayer refuseth to hear the Church, and hath mani- 
fested no evidence of repentance ; therefore, in the name, 
and by the authority, of the Lord Jesus Christ, I pro- 
nounce him to be excluded from the communion of this 
Church^' 

After which, prayer shall be made for the conviction 
and reformation of the excommunicated person, and for 
the establishment of all true believers. 

But the judicatory may omit the publication of the 
excommunication, when it judges that there is sufficient 
reason for such omission. 

VII. When an excommunicated person shall be so 
affected by his state as to be brought to repentance, and 
desires to be readmitted to the privileges of the Church, 
the Session of the Church which excommunicated him, 
having obtained, and placed on record, sufficient evidence 
of his sincere repentance and deep contrition, shall pro- 
ceed to restore him, recording, in explicit terms, the 
grounds on which such conclusion has been reached. 

The sentence of restoration shall be pronounced by the 
Minister, at a regular meeting of the Church on the Lord's 
Day, in the following words : 

" Whereas A. B. has been excluded from the commu- 
nion of the Church, but has now given satisfactory evi- 
dence of repentance; in the name of the Lord Jesus 
Christ, and by his authority, I declare him absolved from 
the sentence of excommunication formerly pronounced 
against him ; and I do restore him to the communion of 
the Church, that he may be a partaker of all the benefits 
of the Lord Jesus, to his eternal salvation." 

After which, he shall be commended to God in prayer. 

VIII. Censures, other than suspension from church 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 363 

privileges, or excommunication, shall be inflicted in such 
mode as the judicatory may direct. 



CHAPTER XII. 

OF THE SOLEMNIZATION OF MARRIAGE. 

I. Marriage is not a sacrament; nor peculiar to the 
church of Christ. It is proper that every commonwealth, 
for the good of society, make laws to regulate marriage ; 
which all citizens are bound to obey. 

II. Christians ought to marry in the Lord: therefore 
it is fit that their marriage be solemnized by a lawful 
minister; that special instruction may be given them, 
and suitable prayers made, when they enter into this 
relation. 

III. Marriage is to be between one man and one wo- 
man only : and they are not to be within the degrees of 
consanguinity or affinity prohibited by the word of God. 

IV. The parties ought to be of such years of discre- 
tion as to be capable of making their own choice: and 
if they be under age, or live with their parents, the con- 
sent of the parents or others, under whose care they are, 
ought to be previously obtained, and well certified to the 
minister, before he proceeds to solemnize the marriage. 

V. Parents ought neither to compel their children to 
marry contrary to their inclinations, nor deny their con- 
sent without just and important reasons. 

VI. Marriage is of a public nature. The welfare of 
civil society, the happiness of families, and the credit of 
religion, are deeply interested in it. Therefore the pur- 
pose of marriage ought to be sufficiently published a 
proper time previously to the solemnization of it. It is 
enjoined on all ministers to be careful that, in this mat- 
ter, they neither transgress the laws of God, nor the laws 
of the community : and that they may not destroy the 



364 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

peace and comfort of families, they must be properly cer 
tified with respect to the parties applying to them, that 
no just objections lie against their marriage. 

VII. Marriage must always be performed before a com- 
petent number of witnesses; and at any time, except on 
a day of public humiliation. And we advise that it be 
not on the Lord's day. And the minister is to give a 
certificate of the marriage when required. 

VIII. When the parties present themselves for mar- 
riage, the minister is to desire, if there is any person 
present who knows any lawful reason why these persons 
may not be joined together in the marriage relation, that 
they will now make it known, or ever after hold their 
peace. 

No objections being made, he is then severally to ad- 
dress himself to the parties to be married, in the follow- 
ing or like words: 

" You, the man, declare in the presence of God, that 
u you do not know any reason, by precontract or other- 
u wise, why you may not lawfully marry this woman." 

Upon his declaring he does not, the minister shall ad- 
dress himself to the bride, in the same or similar terms : 

" You, the woman, declare in the presence of God, that 
" you do not know any reason, by precontract or other- 
" wise, why you may not lawfully marry this man." 

Upon her declaring she does not, he is to begin with 
prayer for the presence and blessing of God. 

The minister shall then proceed to give them some in- 
struction from the scriptures, respecting the institution 
and duties of this state, showing — 

" That God hath instituted marriage for the comfort 
"and happiness of mankind, in declaring a man shall 
"forsake his father and mother, and cleave unto his wife; 
" and that marriage is honorable in all ; that he hath ap- 
" pointed various duties, which are incumbent upon those 
" who enter into this relation ; such as, a high esteem and 
"mutual love for one another; bearing with each other's 
"infirmities and weaknesses, to which human nature is 



Ch. XII.] DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 365 

"subject in its present lapsed state; to encourage each 
" other under the various ills of life ; to comfort one an- 
" other in sickness ; in honesty and industry to provide for 
" each other's temporal support ; to pray for and encour- 
" age one another in the things which pertain to God, and 
" to their immortal souls ; and to live together as the heirs 
" of the grace of life." 

Then the minister shall cause the bridegroom and bride 
to join their hands, and shall pronounce the marriage cov- 
enant, first to the man, in these words : 

" You take this woman, whom you hold by the hand, to 
" be your lawful and married wife ; and you promise, and 
" covenant, in the presence of God and these witnesses, 
"that you will be unto her a loving and faithful hus- 
"band, until you shall be separated by death." 

The bridegroom shall express his consent, by saying, 
"Yes, I do." 

Then the minister shall address himself to the woman, 
in these words : 

" You take this man, whom you hold by the hand, to 
" be your lawful and married husband ; and you prom- 
" ise, and covenant in the presence of God and these wit- 
" nesses, that you will be unto him a loving, faithful, and 
" obedient wife, until you shall be separated by death." 

The bride shall express her consent, by saying, " Yes, 
"I do." 

Then the minister is to say, 

" I pronounce you husband and wife, according to the 
"ordinance of God; whom therefore God hath joined 
"together let no man put asunder." 

After this the minister may exhort them in a few words, 
to the mutual discharge of their duty. 

Then let him conclude with prayer suitable to the occa- 
sion. 

Let the minister keep a proper register for the names 
of all persons whom he marries, and of the time of their 
marriage, for the perusal of all whom it may concern. 



366 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

CHAPTER XIII. 

OF THE VISITATION OF THE SICK. 

I. When persons are sick, it is their duty, before their 
strength and understanding fail them, to send for their 
minister, and to make known to him, with prudence, their 
spiritual state; or to consult him on the concerns of their 
precious souls. And it is his duty to visit them, at their 
request, and to apply himself, with all tenderness and love, 
to administer spiritual good to their immortal souls. 

II. He shall instruct the sick out of the scriptures, that 
diseases arise not out of the ground, nor do they come by 
chance ; but that they are directed and sent by a wise and 
holy God, either for correction of sin, for the trial of grace, 
for improvement in religion, or for other important ends: 
and that they shall work together for good to all those 
who make a wise improvement of God's visitation, neither 
despising his chastening hand, nor fainting under his re- 
bukes. 

III. If the minister finds the sick person to be grossly 
ignorant, he shall instruct him in the nature of repent- 
ance and faith, and the way of acceptance with God, 
through the mediation and atonement of Jesus Christ. 

IV. He shall exhort the sick to examine himself; to 
search his heart, and try his former ways, by the word 
of God ; and shall assist him, by mentioning some of the 
obvious marks and evidences of sincere piety. 

V. If the sick shall signify any scruple, doubt, or temp- 
tation, under which he labors, the minister must endeavor 
to resolve his doubts, and administer instruction and direc- 
tion, as the case may seem to require. 

VI. If the sick appear to be a stupid, thoughtless, and 
hardened sinner, he shall endeavor to awaken his mind ; 
to arouse his conscience ; to convince him of the evil and 
danger of sin; of the curse of the law, and the wrath of 
God due to sinners ; to bring him to an humble and peni- 
tential sense of his iniquities ; and to state before him the 
fullness of the grace and mercy of God, in and through the 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 367 

glorious Redeemer; the absolute necessity of faith and 
repentance, in order to his being interested in the favor 
of God, or his obtaining everlasting happiness. 

VII. If the sick person shall appear to have knowledge, 
to be of a tender conscience, and to have been endeavor- 
ing to serve God in uprightness, though not without many 
failings and sinful infirmities ; or if his spirit be broken 
with a sense of sin, or through apprehensions of the want 
of the divine favor ; then it will be proper to administer 
consolation and encouragement to him, by setting before 
him the freeness and riches of the grace of God, the all- 
sufficiency of the righteousness of Christ, and the sup- 
porting promises of the Gospel. 

VIII. The minister must endeavor to guard the sick 
person against ill-grounded persuasions of the mercy of 
God, without a vital union to Christ ; and against unrea- 
sonable fears of death, and desponding discouragements ; 
against presumption upon his own goodness and merit, 
upon the one hand, and against despair of the mercy and 
grace of God in Jesus Christ, on the other. 

IX. In one word, it is the minister's duty to administer 
to the sick person instruction, conviction, support, conso- 
lation, or encouragement, as his case may seem to require. 

At a proper time, when he is most composed, the minis- 
ter shall pray with and for him. 

X. Lastly, the minister may improve the present occa- 
sion to exhort those about the sick, to consider their mor- 
tality; to turn to the Lord and make their peace with him ; 
in health to prepare for sickness, death and judgment. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

OF THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

I. When any person departs this life, let the corpse be 
taken care of in a decent manner ; and be kept a proper 
and sufficient time before interment. 



368 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

II. When the season for the funeral comes, let the dead 
body be decently attended to the grave, and interred. Dur- 
ing such solemn occasions, let all who attend conduct 
themselves with becoming gravity ; and apply themselves 
to serious meditation or discourse: and the minister, if 
present, may exhort them to consider the frailty of life, 
and the importance of being prepared for death and 
eternity. 



CHAPTER XV. 



OF FASTING, AND OF THE OBSERVATION OF THE DAYS 
OF THANKSGIVING. 

I. There is no day under the gospel commanded to be 
kept holy, except the Lord's day, which is the Christian 
Sabbath. 

II. Nevertheless, to observe days of fasting and thanks- 
giving, as the extraordinary dispensations of divine provi- 
dence may direct, we judge both scriptural and rational. 

III. Fasts and thanksgivings may be observed by indi- 
vidual Christians; or families, in private; by particular 
congregations ; by a number of congregations contiguous 
to each other ; by the congregations under the care of a 
presbytery, or of a synod ; or by all the congregations of 
our church. 

IV. It must be left to the judgment and discretion of 
every Christian and family to determine when it is proper to 
observe a private fast or thanksgiving ; and to the church- 
sessions to determine for particular congregations ; and to 
the presbyteries or synods to determine for larger districts. 
When it is deemed expedient that a fast or thanksgiving 
should be general, the call for them must be judged of by 
the synod or General Assembly. And if at any time the 
civil power should think it proper to appoint a fast or 
thanksgiving, it is the duty of the ministers and people 
of our communion, as we live under a Christian govern- 
ment, to pay all due respect to the same. 



DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 369 

V. Public notice is to be given a convenient time be- 
fore the day of fasting or thanksgiving comes, that per- 
sons may so order their temporal affairs, that they may 
properly attend to the duties thereof. 

VI. There shall be public worship upon all such days ; 
and let the prayers, psalms, portions of Scripture to be 
read, and sermons, be all in a special manner adapted to 
the occasion. 

VII. On fast days, let the minister point out the author- 
ity and providences calling to the observation thereof; and 
let him spend a more than usual portion of time in solemn 
prayer, particular confession of sin, especially of the sins 
of the day and place, with their aggravations, which have 
brought down the judgments of heaven. And let the 
whole day be spent in deep humiliation and mourning 
before God. 

VIII. On days of thanksgiving, he is to give the like 
information respecting the authority and providences 
which call to the observance of them ; and to spend a 
more than usual part of the time in the giving of thanks, 
agreeably to the occasion, and in singing psalms or hymns 
of praise. 

It is the duty of people on these days to rejoice with 
holy gladness of heart; but let trembling be so joined 
with our mirth, that no excess or unbecoming levity be 
indulged. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

THE DIRECTORY FOR SECRET AND FAMILY WORSHIP. 

I. Besides the public worship in congregations, it is 
the indispensable duty of each person, alone, in secret; 
and of every family, by itself, in private, to pray to, and 
worship God. 

II. Secret worship is most plainly enjoined by our Lord. 
In this duty every one, apart by himself, is to spend some 

24 



370 DIRECTORY FOR WORSHIP. 

time in prayer, reading the Scriptures, holy meditation, 
and serious self-examination. The many advantages aris- 
ing from a conscientious discharge of these duties, are best 
known to those who are found in the faithful discharge 
of them. 

III. Family worship, which ought to be performed by 
every family, ordinarily morning and evening, consists in 
prayer, reading the Scriptures, and singing praises. 

IV. The head of the family, who is to lead in this ser- 
vice, ought to be careful that all the members of his house- 
hold duly attend; and that none withdraw themselves 
unnecessarily from any part of family worship ; and that 
all refrain from their common business while the Script- 
ures are read, and gravely attend to the same, no less than 
when prayer or praise is offered up. 

V. Let the heads of families be careful to instruct their 
children and servants in the principles of religion. Every 
proper opportunity ought to be embraced for such instruc- 
tion. But we are of opinion, that the Sabbath evenings, 
after public worship, should be sacredly preserved for this 
purpose. Therefore we highly disapprove of paying un- 
necessary private visits on the Lord's day; admitting 
strangers into the families, except when necessity or char- 
ity requires it ; or any other practices, whatever plausible 
pretences may be offered in their favor, if they interfere 
with the above important and necessary duty. 



Note.— The following " General Rules for Judicatories," not having 
been submitted to the presbyteries, make no part of the Constitution 
of the Presbyterian Church. Yet the General Assembly of 1871, con- 
sidering uniformity in proceedings in all the subordinate judicatories 
as greatly conducive to order and despatch in business, having revised 
and approved these rules, recommended them to all the lower judica- 
tories of the Church for adoption. 



APPENDIX. 



GENEEAL EULES FOE JUDICATOEIES. 

ADOPTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN 1871 AND AMENDED 
IN 1885 AND 1887.* 

I. The Moderator shall take the chair precisely at the 
hour to which the judicatory stands adjourned ; and shall 
immediately call the members to order ; and, on the appear- 
ance of a quorum, shall open the session with prayer. 

II. If a quorum be assembled at the time appointed, and 
the Moderator be absent, the last Moderator present, being 
a commissioner, or if there be none, the senior member 
present, shall be requested to take his place without de- 
lay, until a new election. 

III. If a quorum be not assembled at the hour appoint- 
ed, any two members shall be competent to adjourn from 
time to time, that an opportunity may be given for a quo- 
rum to assemble. 

IV. It shall be the duty of the Moderator, at all times, 
to preserve order, and to endeavor to conduct all business 
before the judicatory to a speedy and proper result. 

V. It shall be the duty of the Moderator, carefully to 
keep notes of the several articles of business which may 
be assigned for particular days, and to call them up at the 
time appointed. 

VI. The Moderator may speak to points of order, in 
preference to other members, rising from his seat for that 
purpose; and shall decide questions of order, subject to 
an appeal to the judicatory by any two members. 

VII. The Moderator shall appoint all committees, ex- 
cept in those cases in which the judicatory shall decide 

*See note on preceding page. 

371 



372 GENERAL RULES FOR JUDICATORIES. 

otherwise. In appointing the standing committees, the 
Moderator may appoint a Vice-Moderator, who may oc- 
cupy the chair at his request, and otherwise assist him 
in the discharge of his duties. 

VIII. When a vote is taken by ballot in any judica- 
tory, the Moderator shall vote with the other members ; 
but he shall not vote in any other case, unless the judi- 
catory be equally divided ; when, if he do not choose to 
vote, the question shall be lost. 

IX. The person first named on any committee shall be 
considered as the chairman thereof, whose duty it shall be 
to convene the committee ; and, in case of his absence or 
inability to act, the second named member shall take his 
place and perform his duties. 

X. It shall be the duty of the clerk, as soon as possible 
after the commencement of the sessions of every judica- 
tory, to form a complete roll of the members present, and 
put the same into the hands of the Moderator. And it 
shall also be the duty of the clerk, whenever any addi- 
tional members take their seats, to add their names, in 
their proper places, to the said roll. 

XI. It shall be the duty of the clerk immediately to 
file all papers, in the order in which they have been read, 
with proper indorsements, and to keep them in perfect 
order. The Stated Clerk shall receive all overtures, me- 
morials, and miscellaneous papers addressed to the judica- 
tory ; shall make record of the same and deliver them to 
the Committee on Bills and Overtures for appropriate dis- 
position or reference. This committee shall have the floor 
on the reassembling of the judicatory after each adjourn- 
ment to report its recommendations as to orders of business 
or reference of papers, and this right of the committee shall 
take precedence of the Orders of the Day. 

XII. The minutes of the last meeting of the judicatory 
shall be presented at the commencement of its sessions, 
and, if requisite, read and corrected. 

XIII. Business left unfinished at the last sitting is ordi- 
narily to be taken up first. 



GENERAL RULES FOR JUDICATORIES. 373 

XIV. A motion made must be seconded, and afterwards 
repeated by the Moderator, or read aloud, before it is de- 
bated ; and every motion shall be reduced to writing, if 
the Moderator or any member require it. 

XV. Any member who shall have made a motion, shall 
have liberty to withdraw it, with the consent of his sec- 
ond, before any debate has taken place thereon ; but not 
afterwards, without the leave of the judicatory. 

XVI. If a motion under debate contain several parts, 
any two members may have it divided, and a question 
taken on each part. 

XVII. When various motions are made with respect 
to the filling of blanks, with particular numbers or times, 
the question shall always be first taken on the highest 
number and the longest time. 

XVIII. Motions to lay on the table, to take up busi- 
ness, to adjourn, and the call for the previous question, 
shall be put without debate. On questions of order, post- 
ponement, or commitment, no member shall speak more 
than once. On all other questions, each member may 
speak twice, but not oftener, without express leave of 
the judicatory. 

XIX. When a question is under debate, no motion shall 
be received, unless to adjourn, to lay on the table, to post- 
pone indefinitely, to postpone to a day certain, to commit, 
or to amend ; which several motions shall have precedence 
in the order in which they are herein arranged; and the 
motion for adjournment shall always be in order. 

XX. An amendment, and also an amendment to an 
amendment, may be moved on any motion; but a mo- 
tion, to amend an amendment to an amendment, shall 
not be in order. Action on amendments shall precede 
action on the original motion. A substitute shall be 
treated as an amendment. 

XXI. A distinction shall be observed between a mo- 
tion to lay on the table for the present, and a motion to lay 
on the table unconditionally, viz. : A motion to lay on the 
table, for the present, shall be taken without debate; and, 



374 GENERAL RULES FOR JUDICATORIES. 

if carried in the affirmative, the effect shall be to place 
the subject on the docket, and it may be taken up and 
considered at any subsequent time. But a motion to lay 
on the table, unconditionally, shall be taken without de- 
bate ; and, if carried in the affirmative, it shall not be in 
order to take up the subject during the same meeting of 
the judicatory, without a vote of reconsideration. 

XXII. The previous question shall be put in this form, 
namely, Shall the main question be now put? It shall 
only be admitted when demanded by a majority of the 
members present; and the effect shall be to put an end 
to all debate and bring the body to a direct vote : First, 
on a motion to commit the subject under consideration 
(if such motion shall have been made) ; secondly, if the 
motion for commitment does not prevail, on pending 
amendments; and lastly, on the main question. 

XXIII. A question shall not be again called up or 
reconsidered at the same sessions of the judicatory at 
which it has been decided, unless by the consent of two- 
thirds of the members who were present at the decision ; 
and unless the motion to reconsider be made and sec- 
onded, by persons who voted with the majority. 

XXIV. A subject which has been indefinitely post- 
poned, either by the operation of the previous question, 
or by a motion for indefinite postponement, shall not be 
again called up during the same sessions of the judicatory, 
unless by the consent of three-fourths of the members 
who were present at the decision. 

XXV. Members ought not, without weighty reasons, 
to decline voting, as this practice might leave the decis- 
ion of very interesting questions to a small proportion of 
the judicatory. Silent members, unless excused from vot- 
ing, must be considered as acquiescing with the majority. 

XXVI. When the Moderator has commenced taking 
the vote, no further debate or remark shall be admitted, 
unless there has evidently been a mistake, in which case 
the mistake shall be rectified, and the Moderator shall 
recommence taking the vote. If the house shall pass the 



GENERAL RULES FOR JUDICATORIES. 375 

motion to "vote on a given subject at a time named," 
speeches shall thereafter be limited to ten minutes. Should 
the hour for adjournment or recess arrive during the voting, 
it shall be postponed to finish the vote, unless the majority 
shall vote to adjourn ; in which case the voting shall on 
the reassembling of the house take precedence of all other 
business till it is finished. Under this rule " the yeas and 
nays " shall not be called except on the final motion to 
adopt as a whole. This motion to fix a time for voting 
shall be put without debate. 

XXVII. The yeas and nays on any question shall not 
be recorded, unless required by one-third of the members 
present. If division is called for on any vote , it shall be 
by a rising vote without a count. If on such a rising vote 
the Moderator is unable to decide, or a quorum rise to 
second a call for " tellers," then the vote shall be taken 
by rising, and the count made by tellers, who shall pass 
through the aisles and report to the Moderator the num- 
ber voting on each side. 

XXVIII. No member, in the course of debate, shall 
be allowed to indulge in personal reflections. 

XXIX. If more than one member rise to speak at the 
same time, the member who is most distant from the Mod- 
erator's chair shall speak first. In the discussion of all 
matters where the sentiment of the house is divided, it is 
proper that the floor should be occupied alternately by 
those representing the different sides of the question. 

XXX. When more than three members of the judica- 
tory shall be standing at the same time, the Moderator 
shall require all to take their seats, the person only ex- 
cepted who may be speaking. 

XXXI. Every member, when speaking, shall address 
himself to the Moderator, and shall treat his fellow- 
members, and especially the Moderator, with decorum 
and respect. 

XXXII. No speaker shall be interrupted, unless he be 
out of order; or for the purpose of correcting mistakes, 
or misrepresentations. 



376 GENERAL RULES FOR JUDICATORIES. 

XXXIII. Without express permission, no member of 
a judicatory, while business is going on, shall engage in 
private conversation ; nor shall members address one an- 
other, nor any person present, but through the Moderator. 

XXXIV. It is indispensable, that members of eccle- 
siastical judicatories maintain great gravity and dignity 
while judicially convened ; that they attend closely in 
their speeches to the subject under consideration, and 
avoid prolix and desultory harangues; and, when they 
deviate from the subject, it is the privilege of any mem- 
ber, and the duty of the Moderator, to call them to order. 

XXXV. If any member act, in any respect, in a disor- 
derly manner, it shall be the privilege of any member, 
and the duty of the Moderator, to call him to order. 

XXXVI. If any member consider himself aggrieved 
by a decision of the Moderator, it shall be his privilege 
to appeal to the judicatory, and the question on the ap- 
peal shall be taken without debate. 

XXXVII. No member shall retire from any judicatory 
without the leave of the Moderator, nor withdraw from 
it to return home without the consent of the judicatory. 

XXXVIII. All judicatories have a right to sit in pri- 
vate, on business, which in their judgment ought not to 
be matter of public speculation. 

XXXIX. Besides the right to sit judicially in private, 
whenever they think proper to do so, all judicatories have 
a right to hold what are commonly called " interlocutory 
meetings," in which members may freely converse to- 
gether, without the formalities which are usually neces- 
sary in judicial proceedings. 

XL. Whenever a judicatory is about to sit in a judicial 
capacity, it shall be the duty of the Moderator solemnly 
to announce, from the chair, that the body is about to 
pass to the consideration of the business assigned for trial, 
and to enjoin on the members to recollect and regard 
their high character as judges of a court of Jesus Christ, 
and the solemn duty in which they are about to act. 

XLI. In all cases before a judicatory, where there is an 



GENERAL RULES FOR JUDICATORIES. 377 

accuser or prosecutor, it is expedient that there be a com- 
mittee of the judicatory appointed (provided the number 
of members be sufficient to admit it without inconve- 
nience), who shall be called the "Judicial Committee, " 
and whose duty it shall be to digest and arrange all the 
papers, and to prescribe, undprthe direction of the judi- 
catory, the whole order of proceedings. The members of 
this committee shall be entitled, notwithstanding their 
performance of this duty, to sit and vote in the cause, as 
members of the judicatory. 

XLII. But in cases of process on the ground of general 
rumor, where there is, of course, no particular accuser, 
there may be a committee appointed (if convenient), who 
shall be called the " Committee of Prosecution," and who 
shall conduct the whole course on the part of the prose- 
cution. The members of this committee shall not be per- 
mitted to sit in judgment in the case. 

XLIII. The permanent officers of a judicatory shall 
have the rights of corresponding members in matters 
touching their several offices. 

XLIV. The Moderator of every judicatory above the 
Church Session, in finally closing its sessions, in addition 
to prayer, may cause to be sung, an appropriate psalm or 
hymn, and shall pronounce the apostolical benediction. 



INDEX. 



The abbreviations used in this Index are intended to facilitate refer- 
ence to the topics named therein. The Roman letters stand for the several 
books of the Constitution, as follows: 

C. Confession of Faith. 
L. Larger Catechism. 
S. Shorter Catechism. 

Or. Form of Government. 

D. Book of Discipline. 

W. Directory for Worship, and in addition 
R. for the Rules for Judicatories. 

The Roman numerals refer to the chapters of the Confession, Form of 
Government, and Directory for Worship. The Arabic numerals refer to 
the sections of the several books. For instance, the reference "Ability, 
original, C. ix. 2 (46)," is to the Confession of Faith, chapter nine, section 
two, page 46 ; or the reference "Accusations, D. 13 (324)," is to the Book of 
Discipline, section thirteen, page 324. 



ABILITY, original, C. ix. 2 (46). 
of will to good lost, C. ix. 3 (46). 
how recovered, C. ix. 4 (47). 
of Christians, C. xvi. 3 (64); L. 
192 (255). 
Absence, leave of, R. 37 (376). 
Absentees, names to be noted, D. 28 
(328). 
roll of, D. 49 (332). 
certificate of dismission of, D. 116 
(345). 
Acceptance, grounds of, C. xi. 1 (51) ; 
L. 70 (153). 
of good works in Christ, C. xvi. 6 

(66). 
in prayer th rough Christ, L. 181 
(248). 
Access, to God through Christ, C. xii. 
(55) ; L. 39 (139) ; 55 (147). 
through Christ only, L. 181 (248). 
greater boldness of, under the N. 
T., C. xx. 1 (80). 
Accusations, caution against, D. 13, 

14 (324). 
Accused person, private conference 
with, D. 9 (324). 
copy of charges for, D. 19 (326). 
refusal to obey citation, D. 27 (326). 
time for appearance, D. 21 (326). 



Accused person, non-appearance of, 
D. 21 (326). 
counsel for, D. 21. 22 (326). 
notice of examination of wit- 
nesses, D. 23 (327). 
may be kept from communion, D. 

32 (329). 
non-exercise of office by, D. 32 

(329). 
suspension for contumacy, D. 33 

(329). 
cited twice if necessary, D. 21 

(326) ; 33 (329). 
self, action in case of, D. 47 (332). 
Actions, governed by Providence, 
C. v. 1 (27) ; L. 18 (130) ; S. 11 
(264). 
Actual sins. See Sins. 
Adjournment, no debate, R. 18 (373). 

always in order, R. 19 (373). 
Admission, examination at, W. x. 3 
(360). 
unbaptized persons, W. x. 4 (360). 
judges of, W. x. 2 (359). 
Admonition, C. xxx. 4 (114), D. 34 
(329) ; 40 (330). 
in appeals, D. 100 (342). 
Adoption, nature and privileges, ft, 
xii. (55) ; L. 74 (156) ; S. 34 (267). 

379 



380 



INDEX. 



Adultery, C. xxiv. 5 (96) ; L. 137 

(208) ; S. 70 (272). 
Advice of Assembly, G. xii. 4 (300). 
Affirmation, D. 61 (335). 
Aggravations of sin, L. 151 (222). 
Alternates, G. xxii. 1 (320). 
Amen, why used, L. 196 (262) ; S. 107 

(277). 
Amendments, R. 20 (373). 
to the Form of Gov., G. xii. 6 
(300). 
Amusements. See Recreations. 
Angels, decree concerning, C. iii. 3 
(22) ; L. 13 (127). 
elect, C. iii. 4 (22) ; L. 13 (127). 
providence, in relation to, C. v. 4 

(29). 
creation of, L. 16 (128). 
employment of, L. 19 (130). 
not to be worshiped, C. xxi. 2 (83) ; 
L. 105 (181). 
Antichrist, the pope is, C. xxv. 6 

(100). 
Antiquity, gives no sanction, L. 109 

(186). 
Apocrypha, not a part of Sacred 

Scripture, C. i. 3 (11). 
Appeal, from decision of Moderator, 
D. 27 (328) ; R. 6 (371). 
heard without debate, D. 27 (328) ; 

R. 36 (376). 
to be recorded, D. 27 (328). 
Appeals, judicial, powers of Asseni- 
blv, G. xii. 4 (299). 
Synod, G. xi. 4 (298). 
Presbytery, G. x. 8 (295). 
entry on minutes, D. 24 (327). 
record to be transmitted, D. 24 

(328). 
in cases without process, D. 47 

(332). 
new evidence, during prosecution 

of, D. 69 (336). 
and complaints consolidated, D. 93 

(340). 
definition of, D. 94 (340). 
in general, D. 94-102 (340-342). 
parties in, D. 94 (341). 
grounds of, D. 95 (341). 
notice of, when and how given, 

D. 96 (340). 
specification of errors, D. 96-99 

(341). 
records in, lodgment of, D. 96, 97, 

101, (341, 342). 
time of lodgment of, D. 97 (341). 
counsel in, D. 97 (341). 
abandonment of, D. 97 (341). 
parties may not vote, D. 93, 98, 

(340, 341). 
vote in, D. 99 (5) (341, 342). 
judgment in, D. 99 (342). 



Appeals, new trial in, D. 99 (342). 
entertainment of, D. 99 (342). 
order of proceedings in, D. 99 (342). 
minute explanatory of judgment, 

D. 99 (Mi). 
effect of judgment upon, D. 100 

(342). 
taken to next judicatory, D. 102 
(342). 
Appellant, name given, D. 94 (340). 
time of appearance, D. 97 (341). 
counsel for, D. 97 (340). 
must lodge appeal, D. 97 (341). 
abandoning appeal, D. 97 (341). 
may not vote, D. 98 (341). 
hearing of, D. 99 (2) (341, 342). 
Appellee, D. 94 (341). 
Assemblies, public, freedom of, C. 

xxiii. 3 (94). 
Assembly. See General Assembly. 
Assurance, of grace and salvation, 
C. xviii. (71). 
grounds of, C. iii. 8 (24); xviii. 2 

(71) ; L. 80 (162). 
attainable, L. 80 (162) ; S. 36 (267). 
strengthened, C. xvi. 2 (64) ; L. 172 

(241). 
believers mav be without, C. xviii. 

3 (72) ; L. 81 (162). 
may be intermitted, C. xviii. 4 (73) ; 

L. 81 (162). 
duty of, C. xviii. 3 (72); L. 194 

(258). 
fruits of, C. xviii. 3 (73). 
Atheism. L. 105 (178). 
Attributes, of God, C. ii. (18) ; L. 7 
(124); 101 (176); S. 4 (263). 

BAPTISM, of, 0. xxviii. (106); L. 

165(236); S. 94 (275). 
perpetuity of, C. xxviii. 1 (105); L. 

176 (245). 
administered but once, C. xxviii. 

7 (108) ; L. 177 (246). 
by ministers only, C. xx vii. 4 (104) ; 

xxviii. 2 (106); L. 176 (245); W. 

viii. 1 (354). 
to whom, C. xxviii. 4 (106) ; L. 166 

(237) ; S. 95 (275). 
mode of, C. xxviii. 3 (106). 
infant, C. xxviii. 6 (107). 
not necessary to salvation, C. 

xxviii. 5 (107). 
neglect of, a sin, C. xxviii. 5 (107). 
efficacy of, C. xxviii. 6 (107). 
how to be improved, L. 167 (237). 
agreement of, with Lord's Supper, 

L. 176 (245). 
difference of, from Lord's Supper, 

L. 177 (246). 
register by Session, G. ix. 9 (293). 
administration, W. viii. (354). 



INDEX. 



381 



Baptism, not to be delayed, W. viii. 

1 (354). 
not by private person, W. viii. i 

(354). 
usually in the church, W. viii. 2 

(355). 
presentation by parents, W. viii. 3 

(355). 
form of, W. viii. 4 (355), 
private, W. viii. 5 (356). 
unbaptized persons, W. x. 4 (360). 
Baptized children as church-mem- 
bers, C. xxv. 2 (98) ; D. 5 (323). 
baptism of, C. xxviii. 4 (106) ; L. 166 

(237) ; S. 95. (275) ; W. viii. 5 (356). 
certificates of dismission, I). 114 

(344). 
and Lord's Supper, W. x. 1 (359). 
relation to Church, W. x. 1 (359). 
instruction of, W. x. 1 (359). 
years of discretion, W. x. 2 (356). 
admission of, W. x. 2 (360). 
examination, W. x. 3 (360). 
Baptized persons, church-members, 

D. 5 (323). 
Believers, cannot fmallv fall from 

grace, C. xvii. 1 (68) ; L. 79 (161). 
sins of, C. xvii. 3 (70). 
use of the Law to, C. xix. 7 (78). 
imperfections of, L. 79 (161). 
assurance of, L. 81 (163). 
death of, L. 85 (165). 
benefits received by,S. 36-38 (268). 
Benediction, close of Assembly, G. 

xii. 8 (301). 
close of service, W. vii. 5 (354). 
Lord's Supper, W. ix. 5 (357). 
Beneficence. See Offerings. 
Bigamy, L. 139 (211). 
Bills and Overtures, Committee on, 

duties of, R. 11 (372 . 
right to the floor, R. 11 (372). 
Bishops or pastors : church officers, 

G. iii. 2 (286). 
office the first in the Church, G. 

iv. (286). 
Scripture names G. iv. (286). 
duties, G. iv. (286). 
are Elders or Presbvters, G. iv. 

(286). 
Session, members of, G. ix. 1 (291). 
presence necessary to quorum, G. 

ix. 2 (292). 
Moderators of Session, G. ix. 3, 4 

(292). 
election, G. xv. 1-5 (308, 309). 
calls, G. xv. 6-10 (309, 310) ; xvi. 1 

(314). 
installment, G. xv. 8 (310) ; G. xvi. 

4-7 (315, 316). 
ordination, G. xv. 11-15 (310-313). 
translation, G. xvi. (314). 



Bishops or pastors: consent of, to 
preaching of others, W. vii. 6 
354). 
See also Call, Election, Install- 
ment, Ministers, Ordination. 
Blanks, filling of, R. 17 (373). 
Blasphemy, L. 113 (190). 
Blindness, judicial, C. v. 6 (31). 
Bodies, state of, after death, C. xxxii. 

(116); L. 86 (165); S. 37 (267). 
Body and blood of Christ, how pres- 
ent in the Lord's Supper, C. 
xxix. 7 (111) ; L. 170 (239). 
mystical, believers members of, C. 
xxv. 1 (97) ; xxix. 1 (108) ; L. 168 
(238). 
Bread, not changed in the Lord's 
Supper, C. xxix. 6 (111), 
dailv, L. 193 (256); S. 104 (276). 
Bribery, L. 142 (214). 
Burial of the dead, W. xiv. (367). 
Business, conduct of, R. 4 (371). 
Moderator's notes, R. 5 (371). 
unfinished, R. 13 (372). 
motion to take up, R. 18 (373). 

C A L L I N G . See Effectual Calling. 
Calls, to the pastoral office — 
form of, G. xv. 6 (309). 
subscription, G. xv. 6, 7 (309). 
acceptance, G. xv. 8 (310). 
are petitions for installment, G. 

xv. 8 (310). 
to candidates, G. xv. 8 (310). 
presentation to Presbytery, G. xv. 

9 (310). 
presentation to parties, G. xv. 9 

(310). 
to licentiates, G. xv. 10 (310). 
only through Presbytery, G. xvi. 

1 (314). 
to settled pastors, G. xvi. 2, 3 '314). 
citations in, G. xvi. 2 (314). 
Candidates, powers of Presbvtery. 

G. x. 8 (295). 
warrant for trials, G. xiv. 1 (304). 
reception of, G. xiv. 2 (304) 
Presbyterial connection, G xiv. 2 

(304). 
testimonials, G. xiv. 2, 3 (304). 
examination, G. xiv. 2 (304). 
trial, parts of, G. xiv. 3, 4, 9 (304, 307). 
term of study, G. xiv. 5 (305). 
questions to, G. xiv. 6. (306). 
licensure, G. xiv. 7 (306). 
record of licensure, G. xiv. 8 (307). 
removal, G. xiv. 9, 10 (307). 
rcall of license, G. xiv. 11 (309). 
call to. G. xv. 8 (310). 
installation on call, G. xv. 8 (310). 
certificate of dismission, G. xiv. 10 

(307); D. 115(345). 



382 



INDEX. 



Candidates, certificate to be re- 
ported, D. 115 (345). 
Cases with process, general rule, D. 

18-32 (325, 329). 
before Session, D. 33-35 (329). 
before Presbytery, D. 36-46 (330, 

331). 
committees for, R. 41, 42 (377). 
Cases without process, D. 47-53 (332, 

333). 
delay in, D. 47 (332). 
judgment and record in, D. 47 

(332). 
Causes, second, C. iii. 1 (21) ; v. 2 

(28). 
Celibacy, vows of, unlawful, C. xxii. 

7 (92); L. 139(211). 
Censures, C. xxx. (112). 
to whom the administration of, 

committed, C. xxx. 2 (113). 
use of, C. xxx. 3 (113). 
on whom to be inflicted, C. xx. 4 

(82); xxx. 2, 3 (113). 
degrees of, C. xxx. 4 (114). 
who absolved from, C. xxx. 2 (113). 
church can inflict, G. viii. 2 (291). 
power of Session in, G. ix. 6 (292). 
infliction and removal of, D. 30 

(329). 
by Session, names of, D. 34 (329). 
in case of ministers, D. 40 (330). 
cautions with regard to, D. 41 

(331). 
of witness for contumacy, D. 67 

(336). 
of records, how to be recorded, D. 

74 (337). 
for failure to send up records in 

complaints, D. 92 (340). 
in appeals, D. 101 (342). 
design of, W. xi. 1 (360). 
manner of, W. xi. 1 (360). 
sentence in, form of, W. xi. 2 (360). 
may be public, W. xi. 2 (360). 
mode of, VV. xi. 8 (362). 

See Excommunication, Suspen- 
sion. 
Ceremonial laws of O. T., C. xix. 3 

(75). 
Certificates of dismission, absentees, 

D. 49 (332). 
baptized children, D. 114 (345). 
church-members, D. 109, 116 (343, 

345). 
ministers, D. 44, 51, 110, 111 (331, 

333, 344). 
extinct church, D. 112 (344). 
extinct Presbytery, D. 113 (344). 
time-limit, church-member, D. 114 

(344). 
ministers, D. 115 (345). 
candidates, I). 115(345). 



Certificates of marriage, W. xii. 7 

(364). 
Chairman of committee, R. 9 (372). 
absence of, how provided for, R. 9 

(372). 
Charge, at ordination, G. xv. 14 

(312). 
at installment, G. xvi. 6 (315). 
Charges, in general, D. 15-17 (325). 
vote on, D. 16 (325). 
entrv on minutes, D. 24 (327). 
reading of, D. 19 (326). 
copy of, for accused, D. 19 (326). 
objections to, D. 22 (326). 
amendments to, D. 22 (326). 
refusal to answer, D. 33 (329). 
proved by one witness, D. 58 (334). 
proof of specifications, D. 58 (334). 
Charity, Assembly to promote, G. 

xii. 5 (298). 
Chastity, L. 138 (209) ; S. 71 (272). 
Children, dving in infancy saved, 

C. x. 3 (50). 
baptism of, C. xxviii. 4 (106); L. 

166(237); S.95 (275). 
See also Baptized Children. 
Christ, why so called, L. 42 (140). 
the Mediator, C. viii. 1 (39); L. 

36 (137). 
truly God, C. viii. 2 (40); L. 11 

(125). 
truly man, C. viii. 2 (40). 
God and man in one person, C. 

viii. 2 (40) ; viii. 3 (41) ; L. 36 

(137). 
necessary that he should be both, 

L. 38, 39 (139); 40(140). 
ordained Mediator from eternity, 

C. viii. 1 (39). 
anointed by the Spirit, C. viii. 3 

(41); L. 42 (140). 
called by the Father, C. viii. 3 

(42). 
willingly undertakes his office, C. 

viii. 4 (42). 
humiliation of, C. viii. 2 (40) ; viii. 

4 (42); L. 37 (138); 46-50 (143, 

144); S. 21 (265); 22(266). 
sufferings and death of, C. viii. 4 

(42) ; L. 49 (144) ; S. 27 (266). 
exaltation of, C. viii. 4 (42) ; L. 

51-56 (145-148) ; S. 28 (266). 
resurrection of, C. viii. 4 (43) ; L. 

51,52 (145); S. 28 (266). 
ascension of, C. viii. 4 (43) ; L. 53 

(146) ; S. 28 (266). 
session, at the right hand of God, 

C. viii. 4 (42) ; L. 54 (147) ; S. 28 

(266). 
intercession of, C. viii. 4 (43) ; viii. 

8 (45) ; L. 55 (147). 
coining to judge the world, C. viii. 



INDEX. 



383 



4 (43); xxxiii. 1 (118); L. 56 

(148) ; S. 28 (266). 
Christ, offices of, as prophet, C. viii. 1 

(39); L. 43(141); S. 24(266). 
as priest, C. viii. 1 (39) : L. -14 (141) ; 

S. 25 (266), 
as King, C. viii. 1 (39) ; L. 45 (142) ; 

S. 26 (266). 
efficacy of his obedience and sac- 
rifice, C. viii. 5, 6 (44); L. 40 

(140) ; 57 (148). 
satisfaction of, C. viii. 5 (44) ; xi. 3 

(52) ; L. 40 (140); 52 (145); S. 25 

(266). 
benefits of redemption by, C. viii. 

6 (44). 
eflfectuallv applies redemption, C. 

viii. 8 (45) ; L. 59 (149). 
spiritual presence, L. 170 (239) ; C. 

xx. 1 (80). 
Head of the Church, C. xxv. 1 (98). 
body and blood of, in the Supper, 

C. xxix. 5 (110). 
no salvation apart from, L. 60 

(149). 
union of the elect with, L. 65, 66 

(151). 
communion of the elect with, L. 

69 (153) ; 82, 83 (163) ; 86 (165) ; 90 

(168). 
Christian liberty. See Liberty. 
Christians, young, who are, W. x. 1 

(359). 
admission, W. x. 2 (359). 
discretion, years of, W. x. 2 (359). 
See also" Baptized Children. 
Church, of the : 
nature of testimony of, to the Sa- 
cred Scriptures, C. i. 5. (12). 
object of God's special providence, 

C. v. 7 (32). 
given to Christ from eternity, C. 

viii. 1 (39). 
may call offenders to account, C. 

xx. 4 (82). 
to be protected by the state, C. 

xxiii. 3 (93). 
freedom of, from state control, C. 

xxiii. 3 (93). 
Christ the only head of the, C. 

xxv. 6(100). 
catholic invisible, defined, C. xxv. 

1 (97); L. 64(151). 
catholic visible, defined, C. xxv. 2 

(98); L. 62(150). 
no ordinary possibility of salva- 
tion out of, C. xxv. 2 (98). 
gifts of Christ to, C. xxv. 3 (99; ; L. 

63 (150). 
signs of puie, C. xxv. 4 (99). 
perpetuity of, C. xxv. 5 (99). 
erected by Christ, G. ii. 1 (284). 



Church, of the : 
cannot bind the conscience, G. i. 7 

(283). 
power, ministerial and declara- 
tive, G. i. 7 (283) ; viii. 2 (291). 
erected by Christ, G. ii. 1 (290). 
kingdom of Christ, G. ii. 1 (284). 
universal, definition of, G. ii. 2 

(284). 
first gathering of, G. iii. 1 (285). 
has no civil jurisdiction, G. viii. 2 

(290). 
cannot inflict civil penalties, G. 

viii. 2 (291). 
can require obedience, G. viii. 2 

(291). 
can exclude from privileges, G 

viii. 2 (291). 
has power to obtain evidence, G. 

viii. 2 (291). 
can inflict censure, G. viii. 2 

(291). 
exclusion highest punishment by 

G. viii. 2 (291). 
Assembly to superintend the 

whole, G. xii. 5 (300). 
Church, particular, warrant for, G. 

ii. 3(284). 
definition of, G. ii. 4 (285). 
ordinances in a, G. vii. (288). 
power of Presbytery, G. x. 8 (295). 
visitation of, G. x. 8 (296). 
testimony of Assembly against 

error or immorality in, G. xii. 5 

(300). 
acceptance of officers by, G. xiii. 4 

(302). 
proceedings of, report to Session, 

D. 71 (337). 
review by Session, D. 71 (337). 
on records of Session, D. 71 (337), 
See also Bishops, Deacons, Rul- 
ing Elders, Congregation, Ses- 
sion. 
Church censures. See Censures. 
Church, extinct, members of, status 

of, D. 112 (344). 
Session of, cases of discipline, D. 

112 (344). 
Church-government, Form of, (281). 
appointed by Christ, C. xxx. 1 

(112). 
Church-members, received by Ses- 
sion, G. ix. 6 (292). 
power of Session over, G. ix. 6 

(292). 
who are, D. 5 (323). 
suspended, roll of, D. 49 (332). 
jurisdiction over, D. 108, 109 

(343). 
dismissed, status of, D. 109 (343). 
removals of, T>. 114 (344). 



384 



INDEX. 



Church-members, must have certifi- 
cates of dismission, D. 114 (344). 
baptized children of, D. 114 (345). 
certificate of, how long valid, D. 

114 (344). 
reception to be reported, D. 114 

(345). 
absentee, D. 49 (332); 116 (345). 
censured, conduct toward, W. xi. 

3 (361 ). 
suspended, repentance of, W. xi. 4 

(361). 
suspended and unrepentant, W. 

xi. 5 (361). 
excommunication of, W. xi. 6 (361). 
restoration of, W. xi. 4 (361) ; xi. 7 
(362). 
See also Communicants. 
Church-office is. appointed by Christ, 
C. xxv. 3(99); G. i. 3(282.) 
powers of, C. xxx. 2 (113), 
duties, etc. of, G. i. 3 (282). 
by whom elected, G. l. 6 (283). 
names, G. iii. 2 (286). 
judges of admissions, W. x. 2 (360). 
See also Bishops, Deacons, El- 
ders. 
Church ordinances. See Ordinances. 
Church Session. See Session. 
Circular letter, G. x. 10 (296) ; xix. 

2 (318). 
Citations, in calls, minister, G. xvi. 
2 (314). 
congregation, G. xvi. 2 (314) ; xvii. 
(316). 
Citations, trials, issuing of, D. 19 
(326). 
service of, D. 20 (326). 
refusal to obey, D. 21 (326). 
second, D. 21 (326) ; 33 (329). 
third, of ministers, I>. 38 (330). 
Civil magistrate. See Magistrate. 
Civil jurisdiction, not in the Church, 
G. viii. 2 (290). 
penalties, Church cannot inflict, 

G. viii. 2 (291). 
power and Christian liberty, C. 

xx. 4 (81). 
power, fast-days, W. xv. 4 (368). 
thanksgiving-days, W. xv. 4 (368). 
Clerks, appointment of, G. xx. (319). 
duties of, G. xx. (319). 
to sign citations, D. 19 (326). 
authenticate records, D. 63 (335). 
receive testimony, D. 65 (336). 
action of, in complaints, 1). 84 

(339); 86 (339). 
action of, in appeals, D. 96 (341). 
to form complete roll, R. 10 (372). 
to add names to roll, R. 10 (372). 
to file all papers, R. 11 (372). 
to receive all papers, R. 11 (372). 



Clerks, to deliver papers to Com., R. 

11 (372). 
Collection, with the sermon, W. vi. 2 
(353). 
for the poor, W. ix. 5 (358). 
Commandments, the ten, L. 183 (177). 
text of, (277). 
are sum of the moral law, C. xix. 

2 (75); L. 98(173); S. 41 (268). 
a perfect rule of righteousness, C. 

xix. 2 (75). 
rules for understanding, L. 99 

(173). 
preface to, explained, L. 101 (176) ; 

S. 43 (268). 
the first, L. 103 (177); S. 45 (269). 
the second, L. 107 (182) ; S. 49 (269). 
the third, L. Ill (187) ; S. 53 (270). 
the fourth, L. 115 (192) ; S. 57 (270). 
the fifth, L. 123 (197); S. 63 (271). 
the sixth, L. 134 (205) ; S. 67 (272). 
the seventh, L. 137 (208) ; S. 70 (272). 
the eighth, L. 140 (211) ; S.73 (272). 
the ninth, L. 143 (215) ; S. 76 (272). 
the tenth, L. 146 (220) ; S. 79 (273). 
no mere man able perfectlv to 
keep, L. 149 (221) ; S. 82 (273*). 
Commission to General Assembly, 

G. xx ii. 2 (320). 
Commissioners, General Assembly : 
ratio, G. xii. 2 (299). 
enrollment, G. xii. 7 (300). 
appointment, G. xxii. 1 (320). 
alternates, G. xxii. 1 (320). 
commission, G. xxii. 2 (320). 
expenses, G. xxii. 3(321). 

See also General Assembly. 
Commissioners to prosecute call, G. 

xv. 10 (310); xvi. 2 (314 j. 
Commissions to take testimony, D. 
65 (335). 
how appointed. D. 65 (335). 
rules for, D. 65 (335). 
competency of testimony before, 

I). 65 (336). 
transmission of testimony before, 
D. 65 (336). 
i Judicial. See Judicial. 
Commit, motion to, R. 18, 19 (373). 
i speak but once, R. 18 (373). 
Committees, chairman, R. 9 (372). 
appointment of, R. 7. 371. 
how convened, R. 9 (372). 
bills and overtures, R. 11 (372). 
judicial, R. 41 (377). 
prosecution, R. 42 (377). 
Common fame, cases on, D. 10 (324); 

R. 42 (377). 
Communicants, withdrawal of, not 
under charges, D. 48 (332). 
absent without certificate, D. 49 
(332); 116(345). 



INDEX. 



385 



Communicants, separate roll of ab- 
sentees, D. 49 (332). 
in neglect of church ordinances, 

D. 50 (332). 
joining other denominations, D. 
52 (333). 
Communion of saints, C. xxvi. (100) ; 
L. 69 (153) ; 86 (165) ; 89 (168). 
a privilege of the visible Church, 
L. 63 (150). 
Communion, confirmed in the Lord's 
Supper, C. xxix. 1 (108) : L. 168 
(238). 
does not infer community of goods, 

C. xxvi. 3 (102). 

terms of, rights of churches to de- 
clare, G. i. 2 (282). 
See also Lord 's Supper. 
Complainant, name given, D. 89 (310). 
must lodge complaint, D. 86 (339). 
hearing of, D. 87 (339). 
may not vote, D. 90 (340). 
may appeal, D. 91 (340). 
Complaints, power of Synod in, G. 
xi. 4 (298). 
power of Assembly in, G. xii. 4 

(299). 
definition of, D. 83 (339). 
notice of, when and how given, D. 

84 (339). 

time of lodgment with higher 

judicatory, D. 84 (339) ; 86 (339). 

effect of, in cases non-judicial, D. 

85 (339). 

order of proceedings before judi- 
catory, D. 88 (340). 

in judicial cases, order of pro- 
ceedings, D. 87 (339). 

effect of, if sustained, D. 88 (340). 

parties to, D. 89 (340). 

counsel in, D. 89 (340). 

parties may not vote, D. 90 (340). 

parties may appeal, D. 91 (340). 

records in case of, to be sent up, 

D. 84 (339) ; 92 (340). 

appeal and, consolidated, D. 93 

(310). 
Condition of the covenant of works, 

and of life, C. vii. 2 (35) ; xix. 1 

(74) ; L. 20 (130) ; S. 12 (264). 
Confession of Faith, (9). 
Confession of sins, to whom to be 

made, C. xv. 6 (62). 
Confidence, Assembly the bond of 

mutual, G. xii. 4 (299). 
Congregation, power of Session to 

concert measures for, G. ix. 6 

(292). 
representation in Presbytery, G. 

x. 2, 3 (294). 
collegiate, representation, G. x. 3 

(294). 

25 



Congregation, vacant, representa- 
tion, G. x. 5 (294). 
union or division of, G. x. 8 (295) ; 

9 (296). 

citation, in calls, G. xvi. 2 (314) ; 

xvii. (316). 
action, in translation, G. xvi. 3 

(314). 
action, in resignation, G. xvn. 

(316). 
assembling for worship, W. i. 5 

(348). 
behavior during service, W. ii. 

(348.) 
singing, W. iv. 3 (349). 
fast-days, W. xv. 4 (368). 
thanksgiving-days, W. xv. 4 (368). 
See also Church, particular; 
Church, extinct. 
Conscience, God alone Lord of the, 
C. xx. 2 (80) ; G. i. 1 (282). 
liberty of, C. xx. 2 (80); G. i. 1 

(282). 
Church cannot bind the, G. i. 7 
(283). 
Constitutional Rules, how made ob- 
ligatory, G. xii. 6 (300). 
Contracts, L. 141 (212). 
Control, review and, D. 70-76 (336- 

338). 
Controversies, final appeal in, C. i. 

10 (15). 

the supreme judge in, C. i. 10 (15). 
by whom determined ministeri- 
ally, C. xxxi. 2 (115). 
Assembly's power to decide, G. xii. 
5 (300). 
Contumacy, D. 21 (326). 
in cases before Sessions, D. 33 (329). 
of ministers, D. 38 (330). 
of witnesses, D. 65 (335). 
Conversation forbidden, R. 33 (376). 
Conversion, C. ix. 4 (47). 
Correction, fatherly, of God's chil- 
dren, C. v. 5 (30) ; xi. 5 (54). 
Correspondence with foreign 
churches, G. xii. 5 (300). 
Assembly the bond of, G. xii. 4 
(300). 
Corresponding members, Presby- 
tery, G. x. 12 (297). 
Synod, G. xi. 3 (298). 
cannot vote, G. x. 12 (297). 
permanent officers, R. 43 (377). 
Corrupt practices, neglect of, by ju- 
dicatory, D. 76 (338). 
Corruption, of nature, C. vi. 2 (32) ; 
vi. 4 (33). 
source of actual sin, C. vi. 4 (34) ; 

L. 25 (132). 
how propagated, C. vi. 3 (33) ; L. 26 
(133); 



386 



INDEX. 



Corruption, remains of, influence, C. 
xiii. 2 (57). 
all motions of, truly sin, C. vi. 5 
(34). 
Councils. See Synods and Councils. 
Counsel, in absence of accused, D. 
21, 22 (326). 
for either party, D. 26 (826). 
must be communicants, D. 26 (326). 
may not vote or judge, D. 26 (326). 
in appeals, D. 97 (341). 
Covenant, no enjoyment of God 
without a, C. vii. 1 (35). 
of works, C. iv. 2 (26) ; vii 2 (35) ; 
xix. 1 (74); L. 20 (130); S. 12 
(264). 
Covenant of grace, C. vii. 3 (36); L. 
30 (13+) ; 31, 32 (135) ; S. 20 (265). 
under the Old Testament, C. vii. 5 

(37). 
under the Gospel, C. vii. 6 (38). 
with whom made, L. 31 (135). 
faith requisite to the, C. vii. 3 (36) ; 

L. 32 (135). 
Mediator of the, C. viii. 1 (39) ; L. 

36 (137). 
not two, but one, C. vii. 6 (39). 
why called a testament, C. vii. 4 
(36). 
Covetousness, L. 142 (214). 
Creation, of the world, C. iv. (25) ; L. 
15 (128); S. 9 (264). 
of angels, L. 16 (128). 
of man, C. iv. 2 (26) ; L. 17 (129) ; S. 
10 (264). 
Creed, The, (279). 
Critical exercise of candidates, G. 

xiv. 4 (305). 
Cup, denial of, to the people, C. xxix. 

4 (110). 
Curse and wrath of God, man liable 
to, C. vi. 6 (34) ; L. 27 (133) ; 152 
(227) ; S. 19 (265) ; 84 (273). 
Cursing, L. 113 (190). 

DANCING, lascivious, L. 139 (211). 
Deacons, church-officers, G. iii. 2 

(286). 
warrant for, G. vi. (288). 
duties, G. vi. (288). 
manage temporalities, G. vi. (288). 
qualifications, G. xiii. 2 (301). 
election, G. xiii. 2 (301). 
how set apart, G. xiii. 4 (302). 
questions to, G. xiii. 4 (302). 
acceptance by church, G. xiii. 4 

(302). 
office perpetual, G. xiii. 6 (303). 
how divested of office, G. xiii. 6 

(303). 
ceasing to act, G. xiii. 7 (303). 
presiding at worship, G. xxi. (319). 



Deacons, general rules for trial of, 
D. 46 (331). 
tried by S ssion, D. 46 (331). 
lose office by dismission, D. 109 
(343). 
Dead, not to be prayed for, C. xxi. 4 
(84) ; L. 183 (249). 
burial of the, W. xiv. (367). 
Death, of. L. 84 (164). 

state after, C. xxxii. (116). 
Death of Christ, C. viii. 4 (42) ; L. 49 
(144) ; S. 27 (266). 
Lord's Supper a memorial of, C. 
xxix. 1 (108) ; L. 168 (238) ; S. 96 
(275). 
See, also, under Christ. 
Death of believers, L. 85 (164). 
Debts, forgiveness of, L. 194 (257) ; S. 

105 (277). 
Decalogue. See Commandments. 
Decision. See Judicial Decision. 
Decrees, of God, of the, C. iii. (20) ; 
iii. 3 (22) ; L. 12 (126) ; S. 7 (264). 
how executed, L. 14 (128); S. 8 
(264). 
See, Election, Predestination, 
Preterition. 
Degrees of consanguinity, W. xii. 3 

(363). 
Delegates, appointment of, G. ix. 6 

(293). 
Demission of ministry, D. 51 (333). 
Deposition, D. 34 (329) ; 40 (330). 
cautions in cases of, D. 41 (331). 
restoration after, D. 43 (331). 
Desertion, willful, C. xxiv. 6 (97). 
Dipping, C. xxviii. 3 (106). 
Directory for Worship, (347). 
Discipline^ Book of, (822). 
Discipline, moral or spiritual, G. i. 8 
(283). 
warrant for, G. i. 8 (283). 
power of Presbytery in, G. x. 8 

(295). 
questions of, G. x. 8 (295). 
controversies, Assembly to decide, 

G. xii. 5 (300). 
in general, D. 1-5 (322, 323). 
definition of, D. 1 (322). 
ends of, D. 2 (322). 
subjects of, D. 5 (323). 
cases of, before extinct Session, D. 

112 (344). 
before extinct Presbytery, D. 113 
(344). 
Disease, purpose of, W. xiii. 2 (366). 
Dismission, jurisdiction in cases of, 
D. 109-113(343,344). 
of ministers, report to Synod, G. x 
9 (296). 
See also Certificates of Dismiss 
sion. 



INDEX. 



387 



Dissents, in general, D. 103-107 (343). 
definition of, D. 103 (343). 
form of, D. 105 (343) 
entry on records, D. 105 (343). 
parties to, D. 107 (343). 
Dissolution of the General Assembly, 

G. xii. 8 (301). 
Division on vote, R. 27 (375). 
Divorce, in what cases lawful, C. 
xxiv. 5 (96). 
a public, and procedure in, C. xxiv. 
6 (97). 
Doctrine, questions of, power of 
Presbytery in, G. x. 8 (295). 
decisions of Synods not final on, 

G. xi. 4 (298). 
controversies, Assembly to decide, 
G. xii. 5 (300). 
Duties, of superiors, inferiors, and 
equals, L. 124-133 (197) ; S. 64-66 
(271). 
required in the Commandments. 
See Commandments. 
Duty to God, shown by the light of 
nature, C. xxi. 1 (82). 
required of man, L. 91 (169) ; S. 39 

(268). 
rule of, C. i. 4 (11) ; L. 5 (123) ; 92 
(169) ; S. 3 (263) ; 40 (268). 

EFFECTUAL CALLING, C. x. (48) ; 

L. 67 (152). 
extends to the elect only, C. iii. 6 

(23). 
who are united to Christ in, L. 66 

(151). 
Elders, pastors are, G. iv. (286). 

See Ruling Elders. 
Elect, The, effectually called and 

saved, C. iii. 6 (23) ; x. 1 (48) ; x. 3 

(50). 
some of, cannot be called by the 

word, C. x. 3 (50). 
how saved, C. x. 3 (50) ; L. 68 (153). 
none other saved, C. iii. 6 (23). 
justification of, C. xi. 4 (53). 
perseverance of, C. xvii. (68). 
infants, C. x. 3 (50). 
the non-, C. x. 4 (50). 
Election, is of mere free grace, C. 

iii. 5 (22); L. 13 (127); S. 20 

(265). 
from eternity in Christ, C. iii. 5 

(22) ; L. 13 (127) ; S. 20 (265). 
not only to the end, but also 

to means, C. iii. 6 (23); L. 13 

(127). 
doctrine of, use to be made of the, 

C. iii. 8 (24). 
Election, church-officers, right in 

society, G. i. 6 (283). 
Ruling Elders, G. xiii. 2 (301). 



Election, Deacons, G. xiii. 2 (301). 
Moderators, G. xix. 3 (318), R. 2 
(371). 
Election of bishops 'or pastors: 
meeting how called, G. xv. 1 (308). 
minister to preside, G. xv. 2 (308). 
notice of meeting, G. xv. 3 (308). 
vote at, G. xv. 4 (308). 
minority at, G. xv. 5 (309}. 
majority ar, G. xv. 5 (309). 
Envy, L. 142 (214). 
Equals, duties ot, L. 131 (203). 

sins of, L. 132 (204). 
Errors, power of Presbytery in, G. x. 
8 (295). 
testimony of Assembly against, G. 

xii. 5 (300). 
to be carefully considered, D. 41 
(331). 
Eucharist. See Lord's Supper. 
Evangelist, ordination of, G. xv. 15 

(313). 
Evidence, false, L. 145 (217). 
introduction of, D. 23 (327). 
in rebuttal, D. 23 (327). 
new, D. 23 (327). 
filing of, D. 24 (327). 
questions of, D. 27 (328). 
care in receiving, D. 54 (334). 
kinds of, D. 59 (334). 
records of judicatory as, D. 63 

(335). 
testimony before judicatories as, 

D. 64 (335). 
new, after trial, D. 68 (336). 
new, during prosecution of appeal, 
D. 69 (336). 
Evils in churches, power of Presbv- 

tery to redress, G. x. 8 (296). 
Exaltation of Christ, C. viii. 4 (43) ; 

L. 51-56 (145-148); S. 28 (266). 
Example, power of, L. 151 (222). 
Exceptions, D. 25 (328). 
Exclusion, power of, G. viii. 2 (291). 
Excommunication, C. xxx. 4 (114). 
by whom inflicted, D. 34 (329) ; 40 

(330). 
not without process, D. 50 (332). 
design of, W. xi. 5 (361). 
time-limit, W. xi. 5 (361). 
sentence of, W. xi. 6 (361). 
publication of, W. xi. 6 (361). 
omission of publication of, W. xi. 

6 (361). 
form of, W. xi. 6 (361). 
restoration from, W. xi. 7 (362). 
Expiation, only by the blood of 

Christ, L. 152 (228). 
Expounding of the Scriptures, W. 
iii. 3 (349) : vii. 2 (353). 

FAITH, in Christ, C. xi. 2 (52). 



388 



INDEX. 



Faith, of saving, C. xiv. (58) ; L. 72 
(155) ; S. 85 (273). 
requisite to salvation, L. 32 (135) ; 

60 (149) ; 153 (228) ; S. 85 (273). 
acts of, C. xiv. 2 (59) ; L. 171 (240). 
how it justifies, C. xi. 1 (51) ; L. 73 

(156). 
is the gift of God, C. vii. 3 (36) ; xi. 

1 (51): L. 71 (154). 

wrought bv the Spirit, C. viii. 8 
(45) ; xiv: 1 (58) ; L. 59 (149) ; 72 
(155). 

the instrument of justification, C. 
xi. 2 (52) ; L. 73 (156). 

wrought ordinarily by the minis- 
try of the word, C. xiv. i. (58) ; 
L. 72 (155). 

different degrees of, C. xiv. 3 (59). 

fruits and evidences, C. xiv. 2 (59) ; 
xvi. 2(64); L. 32 (135). 

assurance, not of the essence of, 
C. xviii. 3 (72) ; L. 73 (156). 

implicit, not to be required, C. xx. 

2 (81). 

in a justified person, is not alone, 

Cxi. 2 (52); L. 73 (156). 
Fall of man, nature and effects, C. 

vi. (32); L.21 (131); S. 13 (264). 
why permitted, C. vi. 1 (32). 
all mankind involved, C. vi. 3 (33) ; 

L. 22(131); S. 16 (265). 
Family, and the Sabbath, L. 118 

(194). 
head of, duties. W. xvi. 4, 5 (370). 
Family instruction, time, W. xvi. 5 

(370). 
importance, W. xvi. 5 (370). 
Family worship, daily required, C. 

xxi. 6 (86). 
on the Sabbath, W. i. 5, 6 (348). 
singing at, W. iv. 1 (349). 
time, W. xvi. 3 (370). 
leader, W. xvi. 4 (370). 
manner, W. xvi. 3, 4 (370). 
participants, W. xvi. 4 (370). 
Fast, before Lord's Supper, W. ix. 6 

(359). 
Fast-day, marriage not to be on, W. 

xii. 7 (364). 
prior to ordination, G. xv. 4 (311). 
propriety of, W. xv. 2 (368). 
who to observe, W. xv. 3 (368). 
private, W. xv. 4 (368). 
congregational. W. xv. 4 (368) 
presbyierial, \V. xv. 4 (368). 
synodical, W. xv. 4 (368). 
General Assembly and, W. xv. 4 

(368). 
civil power and, W. xv. 4 (368). 
notice to be given, W. xv. 5 (369V 

Sublic worship, W. xv. 6 (369). 
uty of minister, W. xv . 7 (369) 



Fast-day, duty of people, W. xv. 3, 8 

(368, 369). 
Fasting, a duty, C. xxi. 5 (85): L. 
108 (183) ; W. xv. (368). 
See Fast-day. 
Fatherhood of God, L. 189 (251) ; S. 

100 (276). 
Father and mother, meaning of, L. 

124 (197). 
Fellowship, L. 82 (163) ; 83 (164). 

See, also, Communion of Saints. 
Fellowship, right hand of, G. xiii. 5 

(303) ; xv. 14 (313). 
Forbearance, G. i. 5 (2S3). 
Foreign churches, correspondence 

with, G. xii. 5 (300). 
Foreknowledge of God, C. iii. 2 (21); 

v. 2(27); L. 14(128). 
Forgiveness. See Pardon. 
Foreordination, of persons, C. iii. 3 
(22) ; iii. 7 (24). 
of means, C. iii. 6 (23) ; v. 3 (28). 
Form of Government, p. 281, 
Forms, ordination of Elders and 
Deacons, G. xiii. 4 (302). 
licensure, G. xiv. 7 (306). 
ordination, minister, G. xv. 12 

(311). 
installment, minister, G. xv. 13 

(312) ; xvi. 6 (315). 
oath or affirmation, D. 61 (335). 
praver not approved, W. v. 4 (352) 
baptism, VV. viii. 4, 5 (355, 356). 
Lord's Supper, W. ix. 4, 5 (357). 
censure, W. xi. 1 (360). 
excommunication, W. xi. 6 (361). 
marriage, W. xii. 8 (364). 
Fornication. C. xxiv. 5 (96). 
Free will, of, C. ix. (46). 
not source of perseverance, C. 
xvii. 2 (68). 
Frugality, L. 141 (212). 

GENERAL ASSEMBLY, Synod to 
propose measures to, G. xi. 4 

(298). 
definition of, G. xii. 1 (299). 
representation, G. xii. 2 (299). 
composition, G. xii. 2 (299). 
quorum, G. xii. 3 (299). 
powers, G. xii. 4-6 (299, 300). 
correspondence, G. xii. 5 (300). 
annual meeting, G. xii. 7 (300). 
prayer at, G. xii. 8 (301). 
dissolution, G. xii. 8 (301). 
power over missions, G. xviii. 

(317). 
Moderator, term of, G. xix. 3 (318). 
fast-days, W. xv. 4 (368). 
thanksgiving-days, W. xv. 4 (368), 
ministers in trans., D. 110 (344). 
See also Commissioners. 



INDEX. 



389 



Glory of God, the end of his decrees 

and works, C. iii. 7 (24) ; iv. 1. 

(25) ; v. 1 (27) ; vi. 1 (32) ; xxxiii. 

2(118); L. 12(126). 
chief end of man, L. 1 (121) ; 190 

(252) ; S. 1 (263). 
Glory, communion in, with Christ 

in this life, L. 83 (163). 
after death, L. 86 (165). 
at the resurrection, L. 87 (166). 
in judgment, L. 90 (168). 
God, doctrine concerning, C. ii. 1 

(16) ; L. 7 (124) ; S. 4 (263). 
being and attributes, C. ii. 1 (16) ; 

L. 6 (123); S. 4(263). 
three p rsons, C. ii. 3 (19) ; L. 9 

(125); S. 6 (264). 
not the author of sin, C. iii. 1 (21) ; 

v. 4 (29). 
most loving, C. ii. 1 (17). 
existence of, shown by the light 

of nature, C. xxi. 1 (82) ; L. 2 

(121). 
but one onlv, C. ii. 1 (16); L. 8 

(125) ; S. 5* (263). 
worship of, C. ii. 2 (18); xxi. 1 

(82); L. 104 (177); 179 (247). 
Lord of the conscience, C. xx. 2 

(80); G. i. 1 (282). 
acknowledgment of, L. 104 (177); 

S. 46 (269). 
veneration of his name, L. 112 

(188); S. 54 (270). 
See, also, Decrees, Foreknowl- 
edge. 
Good works, of, C. xvi. (63). 
reward of, C. xvi. 6 (67). 
of un regenerate persons, C. xvi. 7 

(67). 
Government, Church, C. xxx. (112), 

xxxi. (114). 
Government, Form of, p. 281. 
Government, principles of, G. 1-8 

(281-284). 
differences of, G. viii. 1 (290). 
some form necessary, G. viii. 1 

(290). 
warrant for Presbyterian, G. viii. 

1 (290). 
Grace, acts and works of God's free, 

C. iii. 5 (22) ; x 2 (49) ; xi. 3 (52) ; 

L. 13 (127); 32 (136); 67 (152); 

70 (154) ; 74 (156) ; 75 (157) ; S. 20 

(265) ; 31 (267) ; 33-35 (267). 
covenant of, C. vii. 3 (36); vii. 6 

(38) ; L. 31-36 (135-37). 
ordinary means of, L. 154 (228) ; S. 

88 (274). 
in sacraments, C. xxvii. 3 (103). 
Graces, saving, all wrought by the 

Spirit, C. xiii. 1 (57) ; xiv. 1 (58) ; 

L. 72 (155) ; 73 (156) ; 77 (159). 



Graces, always accompany faith, C. 
xi. 2 (52) ; L. 73 (156). 

i HEAD of the family. See Family. 
j Hearers of the word, L. 160 (233). 
Heaven, of, C. xxxii. 1 (116) ; xxxiii. 

2(119); L. 86(165); 90(168). 
Hell, of. C. xxxii. 1 (117); xxxiii. 2 
(119) t L. 29 (134); 86 (166); 89 
(168). 
Heresy, accountability for, xx. 4 
(82). 
may call for deposition, D. 41 (331). 
negl-ct of, by judicatory, I). 76 
(338) 
Holiness, Assembly to promote, G. 
xii. 5 (300). 
See Sanctifieation. 
Holy Spirit. See Spirit. 
Hopes, false, C. xviii. 1 (71). 
Humiliation of Christ, C. viii. 2 (40) ; 
L. 46 (143) ; S. 27 (266). 

IGNORANT, the. not to be admitted 
to the Lord's table, C. xxix. 8 
(111); L. 173 (242). 
Image of God, man made after, C. 
iv. 2 (26); L. 17 (129); S. 10 (264). 
renewed by sanctifieation, L. 75 
(157) ; S. 35 (267). 
Images, worship of, S. 51 (269). 
Immorality, Assembly's testimony 

against, G. xii. 5 (300). 
Imperfections of believers, L. 78 

(160). 
Imputation, of the guilt of Adam's 
first sin, C. vi. 3 (33) ; L. 25, 26 
(132) ; S. 18 (265). 
of Christ's righteousness, C. xi. 1 
(51); L. 71 (154); 77 (159); S. 33 
(267). 
Inability, C. ix. 3 (46) ; xvi. 3 (64) ; 
L. 25 (132); 95 (171); 149 (221) ; 
192 (255) ; 195 (258) ; S. 82 (273). 
Incarnation of the Son of God, C. viii. 
2 (40); L. 37 (138); 39 (139); 47 
(143) ; S. 21, 22 (266-). 
Incestuous marriages, C. xxiv. 4 (96). 
Infants, how saved, C. x. 3 (50). 
elect, C. x. 3 (50). 

baptism, C. xxviii. 4 (106) ; L. 166 
(237); S. 95(275). 
Inferiors, honor to superiors, L. 127 
(198). 
sins of, L. 128 (200). 
duties of, L. 127(198.) 

See also Baptized Children. 
Infidelity, of civil magistrate, C. 

xxiii. 4 (94). 
Infirmity, acts of, D. 41 (331). 
of Elders, G. xiii. 6 (303) 
i Inspiration of Scripture, C. i. 2 (11). 



390 



INDEX. 



Installment, power of Presbvtery, 
G. x. 8 (295). 
call as petition for, G. xv. 8 (310). 
definition of, G. xvi. 4 (315). 
by whom performed, G. xvi. 4 

(315). 
notice to congregation, G. xvi. 5 

(315). 
charge, G. xvi. 6 (315). 
sermon, G. xvi. 6 (315). 
form, G. xvi. 6 (315). 
questions, minister, G. xvi. 6 (315). 
questions, people, G. xvi. 6 (316). 
greeting to pastor, G. xvi. 6 (316). 
Intercession of Christ, how made, L. 
55 (147). 
belongs to his priestly office, L. 44 
(141); S. 25 (266). 
Instructions, by Assembly, G. xii. 4 

(299). 
Interlocutory meetings, R. 39 (376). 
Investigations to be speedy, D. 32 
(329) ; 45 (331). 

JESTS, profane, L. 113 (191). 
Jesus, why so called, L. 41 (140). 

See also Christ. 
Judge, power to, ministers, G. x. 8 

(295). 
Judgment, the last, C. xxxiii. (118); 
xxxiii. 3 (119); L. 88 (167); 90 
(168). 
Christ the Judge, C. viii. 1 (40); 
viii. 4 (43); xxxiii. 1 (118); L. 
51 (145); 56(148); S. 28 (266). 
who shall be judged at, C. viii. 4 
(43); xxxiii. 1 (118) ; L. 88 (167). 
design of, C. xxxiii. 2 (118). 
time of, concealed, and why, C. 

xxxiii. 3 (119). 
of the righteous, C. xxxiii. 2 (118) ; 

L. 90 (168); S. 38 (268). 
of the wicked, C. xxxiii. 2 (119); 
L. 89 (168). 
Judgment, private, inalienable right 

of, G. i. 1 (282). 
Judgment, judicial, entering of, D. 
23 (327). 
entry on minutes, D. 24 (327). 
transmission to higher judicatory, 

D. 29 (328). 
In cases without process, D. 47 

(332). 
in appeals, D. 99, 100 (341, 342). 
Judicatories, Rules for, (371). 
Judicatories, several kinds, G. viii. 
1 (290). 
extraordinary meetings, G. xix. 2 

(318). 
juri> diet ion of, D. 18 (325). 
first meeting of, D. 19 (326). 
obj ctions to, D. 22 (326). 



Judicatories, private session of, D. 23 

(327). 
minutes of, P. 24 (327). 
mav sit with closed doors, D. 31 

(329). 
ministers, restoration of, D. 43 

(331). 
power of, in cases without process, 

D. 47 (332). 
offence in presence of, D. 47 (332). 
mav decide competency of wit- 
nesses, D. 55 (334). 
records of, as evidence, D. 64 (335). 
testimony before, as evidence be- 
fore other bodies, D. 64 (335). 
mav appoint a commission to take 

testimony, D. 65 (335). 
members of, may be witnesses, D. 

66 (336). 
neglect of duty by, D. 76 (338). 
may answer protests, D. 106 (343). 
roll of. R. 10 (372). 
minutes, R. 12 (372). 
interlocutory meetings, R. 39 (376). 
private sessions, R. 38 (376). 
judicial sessions, R. 40 (376). 
closing services of, R. 44 (377). 
See also Members. 
Judicatories, higher, power over 

lower : 
in neglect of process, D. 18 (325). 
in records, D. 71, 72 (337). 
in regular proceedings, D. 74 (337). 
in unconstitutional proceedings, 

D. 75 (337). 
in neglect of duty, D. 76 (33S). 
pending production of record, D. 

92 (340). 
Judicatories, lower, unconstitutional 

proceedings, D. 75 (337). 
neglect of duty, D. 76 (338). 
obliged to send records, D. 71,92 

(337, 340). 
action upon judgment of, in ap- 
peals, D. 99 (341). 
Judicial cases, complaint in, D. 87 

(339). 
may be submitted to commission, 

D. 118 (345). 
Judicial commissions, Synod, G. xi. 

4 (298). 
General Assembly, G. xii. 4 (299). 
may be appointed, D. 118 (345). 
only by Assembly and Synod, D. 

118 (345). 
number of members, D. 118 (345). 
decisions of, D. 118 (346). 
review of decisions of, D. 118 

(346). 
place of sitting, J). 118 (346). 
findings to be entered on minutes, 

D. 118 (346). 



INDEX. 



391 



Judicial decisions, not to be reversed 

unless regularly taken up, D. 74 

(337). 
Judicial committee, duties of, R. 41 

(377). 
may vote, R. 41 (377). 
sessions, R. 40 (376). 
Judicial laws, of the Old Testament, 

C. xix. 4 (76). 
Jurisdiction, in process, D. 18 (325). 
objections to, D. 22 (326). 
church-members, D. 108, 109 (343). 
ministers, D. 108-110 (343, 344). 
Justice of God, fully satisfied by 

Christ, C. viii. 5 (44) ; xi. 3 (52) ; 

L. 38 (139) ; 70 (154) ; 77 (159) ; S. 

33 (267). 
Justification, of, C. xi. 1 (51) ; L. 70 

(154); 77 (159); S. 33 (267). 
subjects of, C. iii. 6 (23) ; xi. 1 (51) ; 

xi. 4 (53). 
instrument of, C. xi. 2 (52) ; L. 73 

(156). 
time of, C. xi 4 (53) ; xi. 5 (54). 
free grace of, C. xi. 2 (52) ; xi. 3 (53) ; 

L. 70 (154) ; 71 (155) ; S. 33 (267). 
state of, cannot be fallen from, C. 

xi 5(54); L. 77 (160). 
inseparable from sanctification, L. 

77 (16C). 
differs from sanctification, L. 77 

(160). 
under the Old Testament, C. xi. 6 

(54). 
Justifying faith, L. 72 (155). 

KEYS, power of the, C. xxx. 2 (113). 
to whom committed, C. xxx. 2 

(113). 
magistrates may not assume the, 
C. xxiii. 3 (93). 
King, Christ's office of, C. xxx. 1 

(112); L. 45 (142); S. 26 (266). 
Kingdom of Christ, the Church is 

the, G. ii. 1 (284). 
Kingdom of God, L. 191 (253) ; S. 102 

(276). 
Knowledge of God, infinite, C. ii. 2 
(16). 
derivable from the light of nature, 
C i. 1 (9) ; xxi. 1 (82) ; L. 2 (121). 
sufficient, onlv from Scriptures, 
Cil (9); xxi. 1 (82); L. 2. 
(121). 

LARGER Catechism (121-262). 
Law, ceremonial, abrogated, C. xix. 

3 (75) ; xx. 1 (80). 

judicial, how far obligatory, C. xix. 

4 (76). 

moral defined, L. 93 (170). 

given to Adam, with power to 



obev, C. iv. 2 (26); xix. 1 (74); 
L. 92 (169) ; S. 40 (268). 
Law, continues to be binding, C. 
xix. 2 (75) ; xix. 5 (76). 
use of the, under the gospel, C. 
xix. 6, 7 (77, 78); L. 93-98 (170- 
173). 
wherein comprehended, L. 98 

(173); S. 41 (268). 
use to believers, C. xix. 6 (77). 
Lay on the table, motion to, no de- 
bate, R. 18 (373). 
unconditionally, R. 21 (373). 
for the present, R. 21 (373). 
Laying on of hands, G. xv. 14 (313). 
Leave of absence, R. 37 (376). 
Lecture, G. xiv. 4 (305). 
Libert v, Christian, C. xx. (79). 
end of, C. xx. 3 (81). 
abuse of, C. xx. 3,4(81). 
of worship, C. xxiii. 3 (93). 
of conscience, C. xx. 2 (80) : G. i. 
1 (282). 
License, form of, G. xiv. 8 (306). 

recall of, G. xiv. 11 (307). 
Licentiates, report to Synod, G. x. 9 
(296). 
Scripture warrant for trials of, G. 

xiv. 1 (304). 
trials, G. xiv. 4 (305). 
mode of licensing. G. xiv. 7, 8 (306). 
certificate, G. xiv. 8 (306). 
removal to another Presbvtery, G 

xiv. 10 (307). 
recall of license, G. xiv. 11 (307). 
call to, of another Presbvtery, G. 

xv. 10 (310). 
certificate of dismission, how long 

valid, D. 115 (345). 
must be reported, D. 109 (343). 
See also Candidates&ndBishops. 
Life, preservation of, L. 135 (205) ; 

136 (207) ; S. 69 (272). 
Light, of nature, what shown by the, 
C. i. 1 (9). 
insufficiency of, C. i. 1 (9) ; x. 4 (51) ; 
L. 2 (121); L. 60 (149). 
Limitations of time, D. 114-117 (344). 
certificates of dismission, D. 114 

(344); 116 (315). 
prosecution, D. 117 (34n). 
Lord's Day. See Sabbath. 
Lord's Prayer. See Prayer. 
Lord's Supper, institution, nature 
and ends, C. xxix. 1 (108) ; L. 168 
(238); S. 96 (275). 
not a sacrifice for sin, C. xxix. 2 

(109). 
elements of, not to be adored, C. 

xxix. 4 (110). 
substance of elements not changed, 
C. xxix. 5 (110) ; xxix. 6 (111). 



392 



INDEX. 



Lord's Slipper, to be dispensed by 

ministers only, and how, C. xxix. 

3 (109) ; xxix. 4 (110) ; L. 169 (239). 
private administration, C. xxix. 4 

(110). 
relation of the elements of, to 

Christ, C. xxix. 5 (110) 
how Christ is present in the, C. 

xxix. 7 (111) ; L. 170 (239). 
benefits received in the, C. xxix. 

7 (111) ; L. 168 (238) ; 170 (239) ; S. 

91 (274). 
who mav not be admitted to the, 

C. xxix. S (111); L. 173 (242). 
cases of doubting that may not 

exclude from the, L. 172 (241). 
preparation for the, L. 171 (240); 

S. 97 (275). 
duties required in partaking of 

the, L. 174 (242). 
after partaking of the, L. 175 (244). 
wherein it agrees with and differs 

from baptism, L. 176, 177 (245, 

246). 
Session can exclude from, G. ix. 6 

(293). 
administration, W. ix. (356). 
how often celebrated, W. ix. 1 (356). 
who to be excluded, W. ix. 2 (356). 
notice to be given, W. ix. 3 (356). 
preparation for, W. ix. 3 (356). 
preceded by sermon, W. ix. 4 (356). 
form of administration, W. ix. 4, 5 

(356, 357). 
fast before, W. ix. 6 (359). 

MAGISTRATE, civil, of the, C.xxiii. 

(92-95). 
ordained of God, C. xx. 4 (81); 

xxiii. 1 (92). 
Christians mav execute the office 

of, C. xxiii. 2 (92). 
may not assume ecclesiastical 

powers, C. xxiii. 3 (93). 
duties of, to the Church and the 

people, C. xxiii. 3 (93); L. 129 

(201). 
duties of the people to the, C. 

xxiii. 4 (94); L. 127 (198). 
ecflesiastical persons not exempt 

from the authority of the, C. 

xxiii. 4 (91). 
the pope has no power over the, C. 

xxiii. 4 (94). 
is subject to the discipline of the 

Church, C. xx. 4 (82). 
Majority, in election of pastor, G. 

xv. 5 (809). 
Man, how created, C. iv. 2 (26); L. 

17 (129); S. 10 (264). 
original stale, C. iv. 2 (26); ix. 2 

(46). 



Man, ability to good lost, C. ix. 3 

(46). 
unable to convert himself, C. ix. 3 

(47). 
naiural, dead in sin, C. ix. 3 (47) ; 

x. 2 (49). 
God's covenant with, C. vii. 2 (35) ; 

L. 20 (130) : S. 12 (264). 
fall of, and its effects, C. vi. 1, 2 

(32) : vi. 6 (34) ; L. 21 (131) ; 27-29 

(133, 134). 
state of, under the covenant of 

grace, C. vii. 3-6 (36-38); L. 29, 

30 (134). 
chief end of, L. 1 (121) ; S. 1 (263). 
Manners, reformation of, G. xii. 5 

(300). 
Marriage, of, C. xxiv. 1 (95) ; W. xii. 

(363). 
end of, C. xxiv. 2 (95) ; L. 20 (130). 
for whom lawful (C. xxiv. 3 (95) ; 

W. xii. (363). 
with whom it should not be 

formed, C. xxiv. 3 (95). 
betwt en whom unlawful C. xxiv. 4 

(96). 
warrant for dissolution, C. xxiv. 5, 

6 (97). 
not a sacrament, W. xii. 1 (363). 
nature of, W. xii. 1, 6 (363). 
laws to regulate, W. xii. 1 (363). 
of Christians, W. xii. 2 (363). 
by a minister, W. xii. 2 (363). 
parti- s to, W. xii. 3, 4 (363). 
degrees of consanguinity, W. xii. 

3 (363). 
parents, consent of, W. xii. 4 (363). 
persons under age, W. xii. 4 (363). 
parents, duty of, \V. xii. 5 (368). 
ministers to be careful, W. xii. 6 

(368). 
publication of intention, W. xii. 6 

(363). 
civil law, obedience to, W. xii. 6 

(363). 
certification to ministers, W. xii. 

6 (363, 364). 
time of celebration, W. xii. 6 (363). 
witnesses to, W. xii. 7 (364). 
certificate bv minister, W. xii. 7 

(364). 
not on a fast-day, W. xii. 7 (364). 
ot jectiois to, W. xii. 7, 8 (364). 
lawful, W. xii. 8 (364). 
questions to parties, W. xii. 8 (364). 
duties of, W. xii. 8 (364). 
instruction to parties, W. xii. 8 

(364). 
institution of, W. xii. 8 (364). 
purposes of, W. xii. 8 (364). 
forms in, W. xii. 8 (364). 
prayer at, W. xii. 8 (364). 



INDEX. 



393 



Marriage, register of parties, xii. 8 

0*64). 
Mass, abomination of the, C. xxix. 

2 (109). 
Means of grace, under the law, C. 
vii. 5 (37) ; L. 34 (136). 
under the gospel, C. vii. 6 (38) ; L. 

35(137); 154(228); S. 88 (274). 
how made effectual, C. xxv. 3 (99) ; 
L. 155 (229); 161 (234); S. 89 
(274). 
Mediation, benefits of, L. 57 (148). 
Mediator, the, C. viii. (39) : L. 36 

(137) ; S. 21 (265). 
Meetings, extraordinary, G. x. 10 
(296) ; xix. 2 (318). 
private, D. 31 (329). 
interlocutory, R. 39 (376). 

See also Church, Congregation, 
General Assembly, Presbytery, 
Session, Synod. 
Members. See Admission, Baptized 

Children, Church-members. 
Members of judicatory, not voting, 
R. 25 (374). 
silent, R. 25 (374). 
personal reflections, R. 29 (375). 
to be seated, R. 30 (375). 
order in speaking, R. 29, 30 (375). 
to address the Moderator, R. 31 

(375). 
conduct of, R. 31, 32 (375, 376). 
deviating from subject, R. 34 (376). 
aggrieved at decisions, R. 34 (376). 
disorderly, R. 35 (376). 
retiring from judicatory, R. 37 
(376). 
Memorials, to be received by the 

clerk, R. 11 (372). 
Merit, none in us, C. xvi. 5 (65) ; L. 
193 (256). 
See also Christ, Satisfaction. 
Ministers, given to the visible 
Church by Christ, C. xxv. 3 (99) ; 
G. i. 3 (282). 
none other to preach, C. xxvii. 4, 

(104); L. 158(231). 
none other to administer the sac- 
raments, C. xxvii. 4 (104) ; xxviii. 
2(106); L. 169(239). 
freedom of, from the civil magis- 
trate, C. xxiii. 3 (93). 
maintenance of, L. 108 (183). 
call of, by Christ, L. 158 (231). 
how they should preach, L. 159 

(232). 
powers of Presbyter v over, G. x. 8 

(295). 
reception or dismission, report to 

Synod, G. x. 9 (296). 
to receive call from Presbytery, G. 
xv. 9 (310). 



Ministers, citation, in calls, G. xvi. 

2 (314). 
settled, how translated, G. xvi. 2, 

(314). 
resignation of, G. xvii. (816). 
expenses to judicatories, G.xxii. 3 

(321). 
jurisdiction over, D. 18 (325). 
general rules for trial of, D. 36-45 

(330, 331). 
charges against, to be well 

weighed D. 36 (330). 
offences of, outside bounds of homo 

Presbytery, D. 37 (330). 
counsel for, D. 38 (330). 
third citation of, D. 38 (330). 
contumacy of, D. 38 (330). 
suspension of, from communion, 

D. 38, 40 (830). 
from office, D. 38, 40 (330). 
censures to be inflicted on, D. 40 

(330). 
suspension of, followed by deposi- 
tion, D. 40 (330). 
complaints against, for slight 

offences, D. 42 (331). 
restoration of, personal conditions, 

D. 43(331). 
duty of Presbytery, D. 43 (331). 
deposition of, if pastors, D. 44 (331). 
suspension of, if pastors, D. 44 

(331). 
pulpits declared vacant, D. 44 (331). 
letter for deposed, D. 44 (331). 
accused, to refrain from exercise 

of office, D. 45 (331). 
demission of, D. 51 (333). 
abandoning the ministry, D. 53 

(333). 
becoming independent, D. 53 (333). 
joining other denominations, D. 53 

(383). 
joining heretical denominations, 

D. 53 (333). 
jurisdiction over, D. 108 (343). 
dismissed, jurisdiction over, D. 110 

(344). 
status of, D. 110 (344). 
in transitu, D. 110 (344). 
certificates of dismission of, D. 44 

(331); 51, 110, 111 (333,344). 
must specify particular body, D. 

Ill (344). 
certificates, how long valid, D. 115 

(345). 
reception to be reported, D.l 15 345). 
to control music, W. iv. 4 (350). 
duty in offerings, W. vi. 2. (853). 
duty in excommunications, \V. xi. 

6(361). 
to solemnize marriages, YV. xii. 2 

(368). 



394 



INDEX. 



Ministers, care in marriages, W. xii, 

6 (363). 
dutv to the sick. W. xiii. (36!>). 
fast-days, duty, W. xv. 7 (369). 
thanksgiving-days, duty, W. xv. 8 

(359). 
See also Bishops or Pastors, Call, 
E<eciion, Installment, Ordina- 
tion. 
Ministry of the word, relatiou to 

saving faith, C. xiv. 1 (58). 
given to the visible Church cath- 
olic, C. xxv. 3 (99). 
maintenance of, L. 108 (183). 
call to the, L. 158 (231). 
Minority, election of pastor, G. xv. 5 

(309). 
Minors, marriage of, W. xii. 4 (363). 
Minutes, judicial cases, D. 24 (327). 
when presented, R. 12 (372). 
may be read, R. 12 (372). 
Miracu'ous gifts ceased, G. iii. 1 (285). 
Missionaries, credentials of, G. xviii. 

(•517). 
Missions, G. xviii. (317). 
applications for, G. xviii. (317). 
power of Assembly, G. xviii. (317). 
credentials for missionaries, G. 

xviii. (317). 
ordination for, G. xviii. (317). 
consent of parties, G. xviii. (317). 
support of, G. xviii. (317). 
Moderator, circular letter, G. x. 10 

(295) ; xix. 2 (318). 
Synod, G. xi. 5 (298). 
sermon, Assembly G. xii. 7 (300). 
sermon, general, G. xix. 3 (318). 
last Assembly, G. xii. 7 (300). 
dissolution of Assembly, G. xii. 8 

(301). 
warrant for, G. xix. 1 (318). 
powers, G. xix. 2 (318). 
casting vote, G. xix. 2 (318). 
General Assembly, term, G. xix. 3 

(318). 
Synod, term, G. xix. 3 (318,. 
Presbytery, term, G. xix. 3 (318). 
absence, action in, G. xix. 3, R. 2 

(318, 371). 
to sign citations, D. 19 (326). 
to decide questions of order and 

evidence. 1). 27 (32S). 
to authenticate records, D. 63 (335). 
to receive complaints, D. 84 (339). 
to receive appeals, D. 9fS (341). 
when to take the chair, R. 1 

(371). 
open with prayer, R. 1 (371). 
order, to preserve, R. 4 (371). 
business, to conduct all, R. 4 (371). 
notes of business, to keep, R. 5 (371). 
business, to call up, R. 5 (371). 



Moderator, order, to speak to points 

of, R. 6 (371). 
order, to decide points of, R. 6 (371). 
committees, to appoint, R. 7 (371). 
Vice-Moderator, to appoint, R. 7 

(371). 
vote, bv ballot, R. 8 (372). 
vote, casting, R. 8 (372). 
vote, if he does not, question lost, 

R. 8 (372). 
motions to be repeated by, R. 14 

(373). 
duty when members standing, R. 

30 (375). 
members to address the, R. 31 , 33 

(375, 376). 
aggrieved member, R. 34 (376). 
call speakers to order, R. 34 (376). 
call members to order, R. 35 (376). 
appeal from decisions, R. 36 (276). 
duty, judicial sessions, R. 40 (376). 
duty, closing sessions, R. 44 (377). 
Modesty in apparel, L. 138 (209) ; 139 

(210). 
Monastic vows sinful, C. xxii. 7 

(92). 
Moral law, C. xix. 2 (75) ; L. 93 (170) ; 
S. 40 (268). 

See also Commandments, Law. 
Motions, must be seconded, R. 14 

(373). 
read aloud, R. 14 (373). 
reduced to writing, R. 14 (373). 
withdrawal, R. 15 (373). 
division, R. 16 (373). 
blanks, filliug of, R. 17 (373). 
adjourn, R. 18, 19, 26 (373, 374). 
lay on the table, R. 18, 19 (373). 
commit, R. 18, 19, 22 (373, 374). 
previous question, R. 18, 22 (373, 

374). 
postpone indefinitely, R. 18, 19, 21 

(373). 
postpone to day certain, R. 18, 19, 

21 (373) 
speeches, limit to, R. 18, 26 (373, 

374). 
amendment, R. 19, 20 (373). 
admissible in debate, R. 19 (373). 
order of, R. 19 (373). 
substitute, R. 20 (373). 
fix time for voting, R. 26 (374). 
Motions without debate: 
lay on the table, R. 18 (373). 
take up business, R. 18 (373). 
adjourn, R. 18 (373). 
previous question, R. 18 (373). 
fix a time for voting, R. 26 (374). 
appeal from Moderator, R. 36 (376). 
Music, rules of, to be cultivated, W. 
iv. 2 (349). 
ministers to control, W. iv. 4 (350). 



INDEX. 



395 



NATURE, Law of, and the Sabbath, 

C. xxi. 7 (87). 

See also Corruption, Light. 
Necessity, works of, S. 60 (271). 
Neighbors, conduct toward, L. 145 

(217); 148(221). 
New Testament, Books of the, C. i. 

2 (11). 

OATHS, lawful, C. xxii. (89-92). 

denned, C. xxii. 1 (89). 

in what manner and circum- 
stance to be taken, C. xxii. 2 
(89); xxii. 3(90). 

obligatory in all cases, except to 
sin, C. xxii. 4 (90). 

violation of, L. 113 (190). 

how administered, D. 61 (335). 
Obedience, Rule of, L. 93 (170) ; S. 40 

(268). 
Objections, D. 22 (326). 

to marriage, W. xii. 7, 8 (364). 
Offences, L. 151 (224). 

definition of, D. 3 (322). 

public, D. 6, 9 (323, 324). 

private, D. 6, 9 (323, 324). 

to be set forth by charge, D. 1 5 (325). 

in presence of judicatory ,D. 47 (332). 

in case of self-accused persons, D. 
47 (332). 

of ministers, D. 36-38 (330). 

jurisdiction in, D. 108 (343). 

limit of time for prosecution of, 

D. 117 (345). 

See also Accusations, Process, 
Prosecution. 
Offenders, power of Session over, G. 

ix. 6 (292). 
Offerings, warrant for, W. vi. 1 (352). 
place of worship, W. vi. 2 (353). 
apportionment, W. vi. 3 (353). 
minister's duty, W. vi. 4 (353) 
Officers, church,"power to call assem- 
blies, C. xxxi. 1 (114). 
See Bishops, Church- Officers, 
Deacons, Ministers, Modera- 
tor, Buling Elders, Perma- 
nent Officers. 
Old Testament, Books of, C. i. 2 (10). 
Order, Moderator to preserve, G. 
xix. 2(318); R. 4 (371). 
to silence those who do not keep, 

G. xix. 2 (318). 
of proceedings, objections to, D. 22 

(326). 
questions of, D. 27 (328). 
points of, R. 6 (371). 
questions of, speak once, R. 18 (373). 
members to keep, R. 34.(376). 
Ordinances, by whom appointed and 
to what end, C. xxv. 3 (99) ; G. 
vii. (233). 



Ordinances, given to the visible 
Church catholic, C. xxv. 4 (99). 

under the law, C. vii. 5 (37) ; L. 34 
0*6). 

under the gospel, C. vii. 6 (38) ; L. 
35 (137). 

in a particular church, G. vii. (288). 

established by Christ, G. vii. (288). 

admission to sealing. W. x. (359). 
Ordination, of Elders and Deacons. 

G. xiii. 3-5 (301,302). 
Ordination, ministers: 

power of Presbvtery, G. x. 8 (295). 

report to Synod, G. x. 9 (296). 

rules for, G. xv. 11-14, (310, 312). 

time and place, G. xv. 11 (310). 

trials for, G. xv. 11 (310). 

fast-day. G. xv. 11 (310). 

sermon, G. xv. 12 (311). 

questions, minister, G. xv. 12(311). 

questions, people, G. xv. 13 (312). 

form, G. xv. 14 (312). 

charges, G. xv. 14 (312). 

record, G. xv. 14 (313). 

evangelist, G. xv. 15 (313). 
Original corruption, C. vi. 4 (33). 
Original sin, C. vi. 1 (32) ; L. 25 (132) ; 

26 (133); S. 18 (265). 
Overtures, how approved, G. xii. 6 
(300). 

Synod to Assembly, G. xi. 4 (298). 

received by clerk, R. 11 (372). 

PAPERS, how received, R. 11 (372). 

how filed, R. 11 (372). 
Pardon of sin, C. xi. 1 (51) ; xi. 5 (54) ; 

xv. 3 (61); L. 70 (154); 72 (156) ; 

194 (257) ; S. 33 (267) ; 105 (277). 
Parents, obligations to, L. 125 (198). 
and baptism, W. viii. 3 (355). 
and marriage, W. xii. 4, 5 (363). 
Parties to marriage, W. xii. 3, 4, 

(363). 
Parties in trials : 
injured, as prosecutors, P. 8 (323). 
original, in prosecution, D. 10 

(324). 
heard on objections, D. 22 (326). 
may introduce new witnesses, D. 

23 (327). 
excluded from private session, D. 

23 (327). 
may take exceptions, D. 25 (328). 
may have counsel, D. 26 (328). 
cunsent of, to vote of absentees, D. 

28 (328). 
copies of record for, D. 29 (328). 
as witnesses, D. 55 (334). 
relationship to, affects witnesses, 

D. 56 (334). 
how examine witnesses, D. 60 

(334). 



396 



INDEX. 



Parties, may have questions re- 
corded, D. 62 (335). 
may ask commission, D. 65 (335). 
consent of, for new evidence, D. 69 

(33b). 
hearing of, in complaints, D. 87 

(339). 
names of, in complaints, D. 89 

(340). 
mav not vote in complaints, D. 90 

(340). 
in trials, may appeal, D. 91 (340). 
may not vote in appeals, D. 98 

(341). 
hearing of, in appeals, D. 99 (341). 
Passions, excessive, L. 136 (208). 
Pastors. See Bishops and Ministers. 
Pastoral charge, acceptance of, G. 
xv. 8, xvi. 1-3 (310, 314). 
resignation of, G. xvii. (316). 
Peace, the Assembly the bond of, G. 

xii. 4 (300). 
Perfect, none, in this life, C. xvi. 4 

(65). 
Perfections of God. See Attributes. 
Perjury, L. 113 (190). 
Permanent officers, corresponding 

members, R. 43 (377). 
Perseverance of the saints, C. xvii. 
(68)'; L. 75 (157); 80 (162;; 79 
(161); S. 36(267). 
on what it depends, C. xvii. 2 (68) ; 
L. 79 (161). 
Personal injury, conditions in cases 
of, D. 8, 17 (323, 325). 
reflections, R. 28 (375). 
union of the two natures in Christ, 
C. viii. 2 (40); L. 36 (137); S. 21 
(265). 
Persons of the Godhead, C. ii. 3 (19) ; 
L. 9 (125); S. 6 (264). 
coequality proved, L. 11 (125). 
Pictures, lascivious, L. 139 (211). 
Pleas, of, D. 22 (327). 

entry on minutes, D. 24 (327). 
Pope, the, has no civil jurisdiction, 
C. xxiii. 4 (94). 
in no sense head of the Church, C. 

xxv. 6 (100). 
is Antichrist, C. xxv. 6 (100). 
Postponement, can speak once on, 
R. 18 (373). 
effect of, R. 24 (374). 
Pouring as baptism, C. xxviii. 3 (106). 
Power of Church. See Church. 
Praise, importance of, W. vii. 4 (354). 

See also Singing. 
Praver, defined, L. 178 (246) ; S. 98 
"(276). 
required of all men, C. xxi. 3 (84). 
to be made to God only, C. xxi. 2 
(S3); L. 179(247). 



Prayer, where to be made, C. xxi. 6 

(86). 
for whom not to be made, C. xxi. 

4(84); L. 184(249). 
in the name of Christ, what and 

why, L. 180 (247) ; 181 (248). 
for what and whom to be made, 

L. 182-184 (248, 249). 
help of the Spirit in, L. 182 (248). 
at Synod, G. xi. 5 (298). 
General Assembly, G. xii. 8 (301). 
public, W. v. (350). 
invocation, W. v. 1 (350). 
before sermon, W. v. 2 (350). 
after sermon, \V. v. 2, 3 (351). 
forms not approved, W. v. 4 (351). 
preparation for, W. v. 4 (351). 
importance of, W. xii. 4 (354). 
for suspended members, W. xi. 3 

(361). 
excommunicated persons, W. xi. 6 

(361). 
marriage, W. xii. 8 (364). 
for the sick, W. xiii. 9 (367). 
the Lord's. L. 186-196 (251-262) ; S. 

99-107 (276, 277). 
Preachers, of, L. 159 (232). 

See also Bishops, Ministers. 
Preaching, of, C. xxi. 5 (85). 
committed to ministers only, L. 

158 (231). 
manner of, L. 159 (232). 
preparation for, W. vii. 1, 3 (353 

354). 
method of, W. vii. 3 (354). 
less important than prayer and 

praise, W. vii. 4 (354). 
visiting minister, must have con- 
sent of pastor or session, W. vii. 

6 (354). 
Predestination, doctrine of, C. iii. 3 

(22); L. 12(126). 
how to be handled, C. iii. 8 (24). 
Presbyterian government, warrant 

for. G. viii. 1 (290). 
Presbyterv, warrant for. G. x. 1 (293). 
composition of, G. x. 2 (294). 
representation, G. x. 2-5 (294). 
Elder's certificate, G. x. 6 (294). 
quorum, G. x. 7 (294). 
powers, G. x. 8 (295). 
duties, G. x. 9 (296). 
records, G. x. 9 (296). 
annual report to Synod, G. x. 9 

(296). 
meetings, G. x. 10,xix. 2 (296.318). 
special meetings, G. x. 10 (296). 
sermon before, G. x. 11 (297). 
prayer at meetings, G. x. 11 (297). 
corresponding members, G. x. 12 

(297). 
definition of, G. xi. 1 (297). 



INDEX. 



397 



Presbytery, union or division, G. xi. 
4(298). 

powers of Synod, G. xi. 4 (298). 

new, how erected, G. xi. 4 (298). 

review of records, G. xi. 4 (298). 

report d to Assembly, G. xi. 6 (298). 

representation in Assembly, G. 
xii. 2 (299). 

testimony of Assembly against er- 
ror or immorality in, G. xii. 5 
(300). 

power to license, G. xiv. 2 (304). 

reception, etc., of candidates, G. 
xiv. 2, 3 (304). 

laying on of hands, G. xv. 14 (312). 

calls, permission in, G. xvi. 1 (314). 

power, in translation, G. xvi. 2 
(314). 

resignation of minister, G. xvii. 
(316). 

extraordinary meetings, G. xix. 2 
(318). 

Moderator, term of,G. xix. 3 (318). 

Commissioners, appointment of, G. 
xxii. 1 (320). 

jurisdiction of, in process, D. 18 
(325). 

duty toward ministers, D. 36 (330). 

duty toward other Presbyteries in 
cases of ministers, D. 37 (330). 

duty of, in restoration of minis- 
ters, D. 43 (:i31). 

duty to ministers deposed without 
excommunication, D. 44 (331). 

proceedings subject to review, D. 
70 (336). 

jurisdiction of, over dismissed min- 
isters, D. 112 (344). 

jurisdiction over members of ex- 
tinct church, D. 112 (344). 

over cases of discipline of extinct 
church, D. 112 (344). 

extinct, status of members of, D. 
113 (344). 

fast-days, W. xv. 4 (368). 

thanksgiving-days, W. xv. 4 (368). 
Pretention, doctrine of, C. iii. 7 (24) ; 

v. 6(31); L. 13(127). 
Previous question, no debate, K. 18 
(373). 

how put, R. 22 (374). 

effect of, R. 22 (374). 
Private judgment, rights of, G. i. 1 

(282). 
Private sessions, D. 23, 31, (327, 329) ; 

R. 88 (376). 
Probationers. See Licentiates. 
Proceedings, irregular, must be cor- 
rected, D. 74 (337). 

unconstitutional action of indica- 
tory in, D. 75 (337). 
Process, judicial, object of, D. 4 (322). 



Process, parties in cases of, D. 6-14 
(323, 324). 

general rules, D. 18-32 (325-329). 

neglect of, by lower judicatory, D. 
18 (325). 

objections to order of, D. 22 (326). 

case of ministers, D. 36-46 (330, 331). 

Elders and Deacons, D. 36-46 (330, 
331). 

cases without, D. 47-53 (332, 333). 

delay in, D. 47 (332). 

judgment and record in, D.47 (332). 
Profanity, L. 113 (189) : S. 55 (270). 
Profession, what it implies, C. xxvi. 
2 (101). 

public, W. x. 4 (360). 
Property rights not affected by 
church relation, C. xxvi. 3 (102). 
Prosecution, unavailing, D. 7 (323). 

conditions of, individuals, D. 8 
(323). 

judicatories, D. 9 (324). 

initiation of, by iudicatories, D. 10 
(324). 

committee of, D. 11 (324). 

limit of time for, D. 117 (345). 

committee of, duties, R. 42 (377). 

may not vote, R. 42 (377). 
Prosecutor, warning to, D. 14 (324). 
Protests, in general, D. 103-107 (343). 

definition of, D. 104 (343). 

form of, D. 105 (343). 

entry of, on records, D. 105 (343). 

answer to, D. 106 (343). 

modification of, D. 106 (313). 

parties to, D. 107 (343). 
Providence, C. i. 1 (10); v. (27); L. 

18 (130) ; 190 (253) ; S. 11 (264). 
Psalms, singing of. See Singing. 
Public worship. See Worship. 
Public assemblies, not to be forsaken, 

C. xxi. 6 (87). 

QUESTIONS, of doctrine, G. x. 8, 

xi. 4 (295, 298). 
of discipline, G. x. 8 (295). 
ordination of Elders and Deacons, 

G. xiii. 4 (302). 
licensure, G. xiv. 7 (306). 
ordination, pastor, G. xv. 12 (311). 
ordination, evangelist, G. xv. 15 

(313). 
installment, G. xvi. 6 (315). 
debate, put by Moderator, G. xix. 

2 (318). 
of evidence, D. 27 (328). 
of order, D. 27 (328). 
irrelevant or frivolous, D. 60, 65 

(334, 335). 
leading, D. 60 (334). 
to be recorded, D. 62 (335). 
at maniage, W. xii. 8 (364). 



398 



INDEX. 



Questions, of order, speak but once, 

R. 18 (373). 
previous, R. 18 (375). 
admitting but one speech, R. 18 

(375). 
admitting two speeches, R. 19 (375). 
Quorum, Session, G. ix. 2 (292). 
Presbytery, G. x. 7 (294). 
Synod, G. xi. 2 (297). 
General Assembly. G. xii. 3 (299). 
necessary to business, R. 1, 2(371). 
if not present, then adjourn, R. 3 

(371). 

READING, of the Scriptures, C. 

xxi. 5 (85). 
part of worship, W. iii. 1 (349). 
from approved translation, W. iii. 

2 (349). 
manner, etc., of, W. iii. 2 (349). 
Rebuke, D. 34, 40 (329, 330). 
Reconsideration of a question, gen- 
eral, R. 23 (374). 
of a motion to lay on the taDle, R. 

21 (373). 
Record, in slander, D. 12 (324). 
judgment, D. 24 (327). 
of testimony, D. 62 (335). 
Records, Session, G. ix. 8 (293). 
Presbyteries, G. x. 9 (296). 
review by Synod, G. xi. 4 (298). 
Synod, G. xi. 6 (298). 
Records, review by Assembly, G. xii. 

4 (300). 
to be kept by clerks, G. xx. (319). 
extracts from, as vouchers, G. xx. 

(319). 
of the case, what they are, D. 24 

(327). 
transmission to higher judicatory, 

D. 24, 29 (327, 328). 
nothing else to be considered, D. 

24 (327). 
copies for parties, D. 29 (328). 
of proceedings in case of reference, 

D. 82 (339). 
to be read in complaints, D. 87 

(339). 
to be read in appeals. D. 99, 1 (342). 
Records of Session, D. 71 (337). 
how often to be reviewed, D. 71 

(337). 
omission to send up, D. 71 (337). 
Records of lower judicatory, required 

to be produced, D. 71 (337). 
members of judicatorv not to vote 

on review of, D. 73 (837). 
in case of complaint must be sent 

up. D. 92 (310). 
in appeal must be sent up, D. 101 

(342). 
See also Register. 



Recreations, immoderate, L. 136 (208). 
Redeemer of the elect, who is, S. 21 

(265). 
Redemption, C. viii. 2 (40); viii. 5 

(44) ; viii. 6 (44) ; L. 59 (149) ; S. 

29 (266). 

to whom applied, and how, C. iii. 
6 (23) ; viii. 8 (45) ; L. 59 (149) ; S. 

30 (267). 

References, to Presbytery, G. x. 8 
(295). 
to Synod, G. xi. 4 (298). 
to Assembly, G. xii. 4 (299). 
general, D. 77-82 ((338, 339). 
definition, D. 77 (338). 
caution against, D. 77 (338). 
subjects of, D. 78 (338). 
object of, D. 79 (338). 
effect of, upon cases, D. 79 (338). 
members of lower judicatory may 

vote, D. 80 (338). 
judgment in case of, not final, D. 

81 (338). 
remitting of, D. 81 (338). 
record of proceedings in, D. 82 

(339). 
parties to be heard, D. 82 (339). 
Reformation of manners, G. xii. 5 

(300). 
Regeneration. See Effectual Calling. 
Register of marriages, W. xii. 8 
(363). 
to be kept by Session, G. ix. 9 
(293). 
See also Records. 
Religion, insufficiency of natural, C. 

x. 4 (50) ; L. 60 (149). 
Removal, power of Presbytery, G. x. 
8 (295). 
candidates, G. xiv. 9 (307). 
licentiates, G. xiv. 10 (307). 
ministers, G. xvi. 1-3 (314). 
Elders and Deacons lose office by, 

D. 109 (343). 
church-members, D. 114, 116 (345). 
baptized children, D. 114 (345). 
Repentance, not a satisfaction for 

sin, C. xv. 3 (61). 
Repentance unto life, C. xv. (60) ; L. 
76 (158) ; S. 87 (274). 
necessity of, C. xv. 3 (61); L. 153 

(228). 
no condemnation where it is, C. 

xv. 4 (62). 
should be particular, C. xv. 5 (62). 
Representation. See Congregation, 
Presbytery, Synod, General Assem- 
bly. 
Reprobation. See Pretention. 
Resignation. See Bishop or Pastor 

Deacon, Ruling Elder. 
Respondent, D. 89 (340). 



INDEX. 



399 



Restitution, duty of, L. 141 (212). 
Restoration, of ministers, D. 43 (331). 
of church-members, W. x. 4, 7 
(361, 362). 
Resurrection of Christ, ft viii. 4 (42) ; 
L. 52(145). 
of the body, C. xxxii. 3 (117); L. 
85 (164). 
Retiring members, R. 37 (376). 
Review and control, general, D. 70- 
76 (336-338). 
right of, D. 70 (336). 
frequency of, D. 71 (337). 
records may be demanded, D. 71 

(337). 
order of proceedings in, D. 72 

(337). 
points to be examined, I). 72 

(337). 
members of judicatory not to vote 

on, D. 73 (337). 
censure to be recorded, and how, 

D. 74 (337). 
irregular proceedings must be cor- 
rected, D. 74 (337). 
Righteous, blessedness of the, L. 90 

(168). 
Righteousness of Christ imputed to 
believers, C. xi. 1 (51) ; xi. 3 (52) ; 
L. 71 (154) ; 72 (155) ; 77 (159) ; S. 
33 (267). 
Robbery, L. 142 (213). 
Roll of judicatory, R. 10 (372). 
of absentee members, D. 49 (332). 
suspended members, D. 49 (332). 
See also Records, Register. 
Roll-call of judicatory in trial, D. 28 

(328). 
Rule of faith, not decisions of Syn- 
ods or Councils, C. xxxi. 3 (115). 
Rules for Judicatories (371). 
Ruling Elders, church officers, G. iii. 
2 (286). 
representatives of the people, G. 

v. (287). 
by whom chosen, G. v. (287), 
duty of, G. v. (287). 
Scripture warrant, G. v. (287). 
members of Session, G. ix. 2 (292). 
Ruling Elders, in the Presbytery, G. 
x. 2-5 (294). 
credentials, G. x. 6 (294). 
ratio of, Synod, G. xi. 1 (297). 
bv whom and how elected, G. xiii. 

'2 (801). 
qualifications, G. xiii. 2 (301). 
minister to ordain, G. xiii. 4 

(302). 
how set apart, G. xiii. 4 (302). 
questions to, G. xiii. 4 (302). 
acceptance by the Church, G. xiii. 
4 (302). 



Ruling Elders, right hand of fellow- 
ship, G. xiii. 5 (302). 

office perpetual G. xiii. 6 (303). 

how divested of office, G. xiii. 6 
(303). 

infirm or unacceptable, G. xiii. 6 
(303). 

ceasing to act, G. xiii. 7 (303). 

order to be observed in such case3, 
G. xiii. 7 (303). 

term-service, G. xiii. 8 (303). 

not re-elected can represent 
church, G. xiii. 8 (303). 

preside at worship vacant congre- 
gation, G. xxi. (319). 

expenses to judicatories, G. xxii. 
3(321). 

jurisdiction over, D. 18 (325). 

acting, general rules for trial of, 
D. 46 (331). 

lose office by dismission, D. 109 
(343). 
Rumor, general. See Common Fame, 
and Offences, Public. 

SABBATH, of the, C. xxi. 7 (87): L. 

115 (192); S. 57 (270). 
how to be sanctified, C. xxi. 8 (88) ; 

L. 117 (193); S. 60 (271); W. i. 

(347). 
and the law of uature, C. xxi. 7 

(87). 
and the law of God, C. xxi. 7 

(87). 
how it is profaned, L. 119 (195) ; S. 

61 (271). 
reason for sanctifying, L. 120 (195) ; 

S. 62 (271). 
obligations of heads of families 

respecting the, L. 118 (194); W. 

i. 4 (348). 
sanctification of, W. i. 1 (347). 
how to be spent, W. i. 2, 4, 6 (347, 

348). 
the only holy day, W. xv. 1 (368). 
visits on, W. xvi. 5 (370). 
Sacrament, marriage not a, W. xii. 1 

(36H). 
Sacraments, of the, C. xxvii. (102); 

L. 161-164 (234-236); S. 31-93 

(274). 
design of the, C. xxvii. 1 (102) ; L. 

162 (234) ; S. 92 (275). 
number of the, C. xxvii. 4 (104) ; L. 

164 (236) ; S. 93 (275). 
how made effectual, C. xxvii. 3 

(103) ; L. 161 (234) ; S. 91 (274). 
ministers only, to dispense, C. 

xxvii. 4 (104). 
of the Old Testament, the same in 

substance as the New, C. xxvii. 5 

(104). 



400 



INDEX. 



Sacraments, Session can exclude per- 
sons from, G. ix. 6 (292). 
See also Baptism and Lord's 
Supper. 
Sacrifice of Christ, C. viii. 5 (44) ; 1.. 
44(141); S. 25(266). 
the Romish mass abominably in- 
jurious to the, C. xxix. 2 (109). 
the Lord's Supper not a, C. xxix. 2 
(109). 
Sacrilege, L. 109 (186). 
Saints, worship of, C. xxi. 2 (83); L. 

105 (181). 
Saints, communion of, C. xxvi. (100). 
Salvation in Christ onlv, C. X, 4 (50) ; 
L. 60 (149). 
who obtain, C. iii. 6 (23); viii. 5 
(41); viii. 8 (45); x. 1 (49); x. 4 
(50); L. 64(151). 
See Adoption, Church Commu- 
nion, Effectual Calling, Elect, 
Means of Grace, Redemption. 
Salvation, things necessary to, C. i. 7 
(13). 
ordinarily in the Church, C. xxv. 

2 (98). 
limits of, L. 59 (149). 
Sanctification, of, C. xiii. (56) ; L. 75 
(157); S. 35 (267). 

inseparably joined with justifica- 
tion, L. 77 (159). 
in what justification differs from, 

L. 77 (159). 
imperfect in this life, C. xiii. 2 
(57); L. 78 (160); 149 (221). 
Sanctification of the Lord's Day, L. 
117 (193); 8. 60 (271); \V. i. (347). 
Satisfaction, not made by repent- 
ance, C. xv. 3 (61). 
not by works, C. xvi. 5 (65), 
not by any creature, L. 194 (258). 
by Christ only, C. viii. 5 (44) ; xi. 1 

(51); L. 38 (139): 71 (154). 
of Christ, imputed to believers, C. 
xi. 1 (51) ; L. 70 (154). 
Saved, the, who they are, L. 61 

(150). 
Schism, power of Assembly in, G. 
xii. 5 (300). 
may call for deposition, D. 41 (331). 
Scriptures, of the Holy, C. i. (9-15) ; 
L. 3 (122). 
why necessary, C. i. 1 (9). 
canonical books of, C. i. 2, 3 (11). 
inspiration of, C. i. 2 -11). 
the only rule of faith, practice, 
and worship, C. i. 2 (10); xxi. 1 
(83); L. 3 (122); 5 (123); S. 3 
(26S£ 
the Spirit speaking in, the su- 
preme Judge of religious con- | 
troversies, C. i. 2 (10). 



Scriptures, of the Holy, authority of, 
C. i. 4 (11). 

testimony of the Church to, C. i. 5 
(12). 

testimony of the Holy Spirit to, C. 
i. 5 (12 j. 

evidences of, as the word of 
God, C. i. 5 (12); L. 4 
(122). 

illumination of the Spirit neces- 
sary to a saving understand- 
ing of, C. i. 6 (12); L. 155 
(229). 

sufficiency and perfection of, C. i. 
6 (12); L. 2 (121); 4 (122); S. 2 
(261). 

perspicuity of. C. i. 7 (13). 

the original text of, the final ap- 
peal, C. i. 8 (14). 

to be translated into the vulgar 
tongue, C. i. 8 (14); L. 156 
(230 j. 

the infallible rule of interpreta- 
tion, C. i. 9 (15). 

what they teach, L. 5 (123); S. 3 
(263). 

re iding of the, C. xxi. 5 (85). 

to be read by all, L. 156 (230). 

how to be read, L. 157 (230). 

how made effectual to salvation, 
L. 155 (229) ; S. 89 (274). 
Sealing ordinances. See Ordinances, 

Baptism, and Lord's Supper. 
Second to motions, R. 14 (373). 
Secret worship. See Worship. 
Self-accused person, case of, D. 47 

(332). 
Sentence, form of, in censures, W. 
xi. 2 (360). 

in excommunications, W. xi. 6 
(361). 

in restoration, W. xi. 7 (362). 

publication of, D. 35 (329) ; W. xi. 2, 
6(361). 
Sermons, Synod, G. xi. 6 (298). 

Assembly, G. xii. 7 (300). 

candidates, G. xiv. 4 (305). 

ordination, G. xv. 12 (311). 

Moderators, G. xix. 3 (318). 

subject, W. vii. 2 (353). 

object, \V. vii. 2 <;353). 

caution against long, W. vii. 4 
(354). 

at Lord's Supper, W. ix. 6 (359). 
Servants, instruction of, W. xvi. 5 

(370). 
Session, Church, composition, G. ix. 
1 (291). 

quorum, G. ix. 2 (292). 

Moderator, G. ix. 3-5 (292). 

powers, G. ix. 6 (292). 

appoint delegates, G. ix. 6 (292). 



INDEX. 



401 



Session, how and when convened, G. 

ix. 7 (293). 
records, G. ix. 8 (293). 
records, review of, G. ix. 8 (293) ; 

x. 8 (295). 
register of members, G. ix. 9 (293). 
register of marriages and baptisms, 

G. ix. 9 (292). 
appeals from, G. x. 8 (295). 
references by, G. x. 8 (295). 
power of Synod over, G. xi. 4 (298). 
ordination of Elders, G. xiii. 5 

(302). 
meeting for election of pastor, G. 

xv. 1 (308). 
jurisdiction of, in process, D. 18 

(325). 
censures by, names of, D. 34 (329). 
special rules for cases before, D. 33- 

35 (329). 
cases without process, D. 48, 49, 50, 

52 (332, 333). 
roll of absentees, D. 49 (332). 
proceedings subject to review, D. 

70 (336). 
report of church proceedings to, 

D. 71 (337). 
records of, to include church pro- 
ceedings, D. 71 (337). 
review of church proceedings by, 

D. 71 (337). 
jurisdiction of, over dismissed 

members, D. 109 (343). 
of extinct church, case of disci- 
pline, D. 112 (344). 
roll of baptized children, D. 114 

(344) 
consent in preaching, W. vii. 6 

(354). 
Shorter Catechism (263). 
Sick, visitation of, W. xiii. 1 (366). 
duty of the, W. xiii. 1 (366). 
instruction, W. xiii. 2-9 (366, 367). 
prayer for, VV. xiii. 9 (367). 
Sickness, purpose of, W. xiii. 2 (366). 
Silent members, R. 25 (374). 
Simony, L. 109 (186). 
Sin, God not the author of, C. iii. 1 

(21) ; v. 4 (29). 
bounding of, C. v. 4 (29). 
of the righteous, C. v. 5 (30) : xi. 5 

(54). 
of the wicked, C. v. 6 (31). 
definition of, C. vi. 5 (34) ; L. 24 

(132); S. 14 (264). 
original, C. vi. 6 (34) ; L. 25 (132) ; 

S. 18 (265). 
of our first parents, C. vi. 1 (32) ; 

L. 21 (131) ; S. 15 (265). 
why permitted, C. vi. 1 (32). 
imputation of, C. vi. 3 (33). 
effects of the first, C. vi. 2 (32) ; vi. 

26 



4 (33); L. 25 C132) ; 27 (133); S. 

17 (265) ; 19 (265). 
Sin, demerit of, C. vi. 6 (34) ; L. 152 

(227); S. 84 (273). 
punishment of, C. xvii. 3 (70) ; 

xxxii. 1 (117); xxxiii. 2 (118); 

L. 28 (133); 29 (134); 84 (164); 

89 (167). 
deserves damnation, C. xv. 4 (62). 
confession of, to God, C. xv. 6 

(62). 
confession of, to the church, C. xv. 

6 (62). 
and Christian liberty, C. xx. 3 (81). 
remission of, C. xxx. 2 (113). 
deliverance from, L. 195 (259) ; S. 

106 (277). 
forgiveness of, L. 194 (258) ; S. 105 

(277). 
all, not equally heinous, L. 150 

(222) ; S. 83 (273). 
aggravations of, L. 151 (222). 
Sins, against the several command- 
ments, first, L. 105 (178); S. 47 

(269). 
second, L. 109 (184) ; S. 51 (269). 
third, L. 113 (189) ; S. 55 (270). 
fourth, L. 119 T195); S. 61 (271). 
fifth, L. 128 (200) ; 130 (202) ; 132 

(204); S. 65 (271). 
sixth, L. 136 (207) ; S. 69 (272). 
seventh, L. 139 (209) ; S. 72 (272). 
eighth, L. 142 (213) ; S. 75 (272). 
ninth, L. 145 (217) ; S. 78 (273). 
tenth, L. 148 (221) ; S. 81 (273). 
Singing, C. xxi. 5 '85). 
part of worship, W. iv. 1 (349). 
how to be conducted, W. iv. 2 (349). 
whole congregation, W. iv. 3 (349). 
proportion of time, W. iv. 3 (349). 
Slander, L. 145 (217). 
investigation of, D. 12 (324). 
record may conclude. D. 12 (324). 
Soul, the, created immortal, C. iv. 2 

(26) ; L. 17 (129). 
separate state of, C. xxxii. 1 (116) ; 

L. 86 (165). 
after death, C. xxxii. 1 (116). 
Sovereignty of God, C. ii. 2 (18) ; xxi. 

1 (82). 

Speakers, address the chair, G. xix. 

2 (318). 

personal reflections, G. xix. 2 (318). 
deviating from subject, G. xix. 2 

(318). 
limitations on, R. 18, 26, 28 (373- 

376). 
order of, R. 29 (375). 
alternation of, R. 29 (375). 
interruptions of, R. 32 (376). 
called to order, R. 34 (37.6). 
Specifications, D. 15-17 (325). 



402 



INDEX. 



Specifications, reading of, D. 19 

(326). 
copy of, for accused, D. 19 (326). 
objections to, D. 22 (326). 
amendments to, D. 22 (326). 
entry on minutes, D. 24 (327). 
proof of two, may prove charge, 

D. 58 (334). 
Speeches, limits on, R. 18, 26 (325- 

328). 
prolix, R. 34 (329). 
Spirit, the Holy, C. ii. 3 (19); L. 9 

(125); 11 (125); S. 6 (264). 
testimony to the authority of 

Scriptures, C. i. 5 (12); L. 4 

(123). 
and the reading of the Scriptures, 

C. i. 6 (12). 
supreme Judge of controversies, C. 

i. 10 (15). 
relation to ability to believe, C. 

vii. 3 (36); S. 30 (267). 
persuades to faith and obedience, 

C. viii. 8 (45). 
applies benefits of redemption, C. 

viii. 8 (45); L. 58 (149). 
agent in effectual calling, C. x. 1 

in conversion, C. x. 2 (49). 
in justification, C. xi. 4 (53). 
in sanctification, C. xiii. 1 (56). 
and the faith of the elect, C. xiv. 1 

(58); L. 32(135). 
production of good works by, C. 

xvi. 3 (64). 
relation to perseverance, C. xvii. 1 

(68). 
in adoption, C. xviii. 2 (71); L. 74 

(156). 
agency of, in assurance, C. xviii. 3 

(72); L. 80(162). 
grieved by sins of believers, C. 

xviii. 4 (73). 
prevents despair, C. xviii. 4 (73) ; 

L. 81 (163). 
produces obedience to the law, C. 

xix. 7 (78). 
makes a sacrament efficacious, C. 

xxvii. 3 (103); L. 161 (234). 
confers grace in all true baptism, 

C. xxviii. 6 (107). 
works repentance unto life, L. 76 

(158). 
makes reading and preaching of 

Scriptures effectual, L. 155 (229) ; 

S. 89 (274). 
aids in prayer, L. 178 (246); 182 

(248). 
Sprinkling, C. xxviii. 3 (106). 
Subject, vote on given, at time 

named, R. 26 (374). 
of sermon, W. vii. 2 (353). 



Substitute is an amendment, R. 20 

(373). 
Supererogation , works of, impossible, 

C. xvi. 4 (65). 
Superintendence, power of, in As- 
sembly, G. xii. 5 (300). 
Superiors, honoring of, L. 124, 127, 
(197). 
sins of, L. 130 (202). 
duties of, L. 129 (201). 
Superstition, L. 109 (185). 
Supper. See Lord's Supper. 
Surety, Christ the, C. viii. 3 (42) ; L. 

71 (154). 
Suspended members. See Church- 

members. 
Suspension, C. xxx. 4 (114). 
for contumacy, D. 33 (329). 
inflicted by Session, D. 34 (329). 
contumacv of minister, D. 38 (330). 
sentence of, D. 40 (330). 
minister, from office, D. 40 (330). 
for neglect of ordinances, D. 50 

(332). 
may be public, W. xi. 2 (361). 
Swearing, profane, C. xxii. 2 (89). 
Sword, power of the, C. xxiii. 1 

(92). 
Synagogues of Satan, C. xxv. 5 

(100). 
Synod, definition of, G. xi. 1 (297). 
at least three Presbyteries, G. xi. 1 

(297). 
composition of, G. xi. 2 (297). 
quorum, G. xi. 2 (297). 
corresponding members, G. xi. 3 

(29S). 
powers, G. xi. 4 (298). 
judicial commissions, G. xi. 4 

(298). 
decisions, how far final, G. xi. 4 

098). 
may propose measures to Assem- 
bly, G. xi. 4 (298). 
meet once a year, G. xi. 5 (298). 
sermon before, G. xi. 5 (298). 
praver at meetings. G. xi. 5 (298). 
duties, G. xi. 6 (298). 
records, G. xi. 6 (298). 
review of records, G. xi. 6 (298); 

xii. 4 (299). 
report of, to Assembly, G. xi. 6 

(298). 
testimony of Assembly against er- 
ror or "immorality in, G. xii. 5 
(300). 
new, how erected, G. xii. 5 (300). 
translation of a minister, G. xvi. 2 

(314). 
extraordinary meetings, G. xix. 2 

(318). 
Moderator, term of, G. xix. 3 (318). 



INDEX. 



403 



Synod, proceedings of, review of, D. 

70 (336). 
jurisdiction of, over members of 

extinct Presbytery, D. 113 (344). 
jurisdiction over cases of disci- 
pline in extinct Presbytery, D. 

113 (344). 
fast-days, W. xv. 4 (368). 
thanksgiving-days, W. xv. 4 (368). 
Synods and councils, of, C. xxxi. 

(114) ; G. i. 7 (283). 
to handle only matters ecclesias- 

cal, C. xxxi. 4 (115). 
with exceptions noted, C. xxxi. 4 

(116). 
may err, C. xxxi. 3 (115) ; G. i. 7 

(283). 

TEACHERS, to be sound in the 

faith, G. i. 5 (283). 
Tellers, R. 27 (375). 
Temptation, why believers are left to, 
C. v. 5 (30). 
wicked sometimes given over to, C. 

v. 6 (31). 
and assurance, C. xviii. 4 (73). 
how to be prayed against, L. 195 
(258) : S. 106 (277). 
Testament, why the Covenant of 
Grace is called a, C. vii. 4 (36). 
under the law, the Old, C. vii. 5 

(37). 
under the gospel, the New, C. vii. 
6 (38). 
Testimony, reception of, D. 54 (334). 
record of, D. 63 (335). 
before a judicatory as evidence be- 
fore another, D. 64 (335). 
commissioners to take, D. 65 (335). 
record of, before commission, D. (^5 

(335). 
of member of judicatory, D. 66 

(336). 
new, in appeals, D. 69 (336). 
improper, D. 95 (341). 

See also Evidence and Wit- 
nesses. 
Thanksgiving, required of all men, 
C. xx i. 3 (84). 
days of, W. xv. (368). 
propriety, W. xv. 2 (368). 
bv whom to be observed, W. xv. 2 

'(368). 
private, W. xv. 4 (368). 
congregational, W. xv. 4 (368). 
presbyt rial, W. xv. 4 (368). 
synodical, W. xv. 4 (368). 
General Assembly, W. xv. 4 (368). 
civil power, W. xv. 4 (368). 
duty, of minister. W. xv. 4 (368). 
duty, of people, W. xv. 4 (368). 
Theft, L. 142 (213). 



Time, limitations of, D. 114-117 (345). 
Traditions, not to be added to the 

Scripture, C. i. 6 (13). 
Translation of Scriptures, C. i. 8 (14) ; 

L. 156 (230); W. iii. 2(349). 
Translation, minister, G. xvi. (314). 
power of Presbytery, G. xvi. 2 

(314). 
reference to Synod, G. xvi. 2 (314). 
not without consent, G. xvi. 3 
(314). 
See also Removal. 
Transubstantiation repugnant to 
Scripture and to common sense, 
C. xxix. 6(111). 
Trials, for ordination, G. xv. 11 (310). 
of candidates, G. xiv. 4 (305). 
order of procedure, D. 19, 22, 23 
(326, 327). 

to be speedy, D. 32, 45 (329, 331). 
new, D. 68, 69 (336). 
new, in appeals, D. 99 (341). 
Trinitv, the doctrine of the, C. ii. 

(16*); L- 9 (125); S. 6 (264). 
Truth, speaking the, L. 144 (215) ; S. 
77 (273). 
the touchstone and necessity of, 

G. i. 4 (282). 
purpose of, G. i. 4 (282). 
and falsehood, G. i. 4 (282). 
Assembly to promote, G. xii. 5 (300). 

UN BAPTIZED persons, admission 

of, W. x. 4 (360). 
Unclean ness, L. 139 (211). 
Unfinished business, R. 13 (372). 
Union of believers with Christ, C. 

xxvi. 1 (100); L. 66 (151); 79 

(161). 
hypostatic. See Personal Union. 
Union of churches, the Assembly 

the bond of, G. xii. 4 (300). 
Unity of God, C. ii. 1 (16) ; ii. 3 (19) ; 

L. 8 (125) ; S. 6 (264) ; 
Un regenerate, use of the moral law 

to the, L. 96(171). 
works of the, C. xvi. 7 (67). 
Usury, L. 142 (213). 

VACAN CI ES, how supplied, G. xviii. 

(317). 
Vacant congregations, worship of: 
recommendation regarding, G. xxi. 

(319). 
Presbvtery to recommend sermons, 

G. xxi. (319). 
Elders or Deacons to preside at, G. 
xxi. (319). 
Vice-Moderator, R. 7 (372). 
Visitation of churches, G. x. 8 
(295). 
of the sick, W. xiii. I (366). 



404 



INDEX. 



Visits, on the Sabbath, disapproved, 

W. xvi. 5 (370). 
Vote, object to be given, G. xix. 2 
(318). 

state of, G. xix. 2 (318). 

equally divided, G. xix. 2 (318); R. 
27 (375). 

casting. Moderator, G. xix. 2 (318). 

on several charges, D. 16 (325). 

qualifications for, D. 28 (328). 

not allowed to persons under pro- 
cess. D. 39 (330). 

member of judicatory under re- 
view not to, D. 73 (337). 

member of judicatory may on ref- 
erence, D. 80 (338). 

parties to complaint may not, D. 
90 (340). 

in appeals may not, D. 98 (341). 

in appeals, D. 99, 5 (342). 

Moderator, R. 8 (372). 

members not to decline, R. 25 (374). 

silent members, R. 25 (374). 

taking the, R. 26 (374). 

mistake in, R. 26 (374). 

on a given subject at time named, 
R. 26 (374). 

division on, R. 27 (375). 

tellers, R. 27 (375). 

yeas and nays, R. 27 (375). 

Judicial Committee may, R. 41 
(377). 

Committee of prosecution may not, 
R. 42 (377). 
Vows, of, C. xxii. 5 (91). 

to whom to be made, C. xxii. 6 (91). 

lawful, C. xxii. 5 (91). 

unlawful, C. xxii. 7 (92). 

monastic are sinful, C. xxii. 7 (92). 

WAR, just and necessary, may be 

waged, C. xxiii. 2 (93). 
Water in baptism, C. xxviii. 2 (106). 
Wealth, true view of, S. 66, 74, 75 

(272). 
Wicked, hardening of the, C. v. 6 
(31). 
condition of, in life, L. 83 (164). 
after death, C. xxxii. 1 (116) ; L. 87 

(166). 
after judgment, C. xxxiii. 2 (118); 
L. 89 (168). 
Wilful desertion, C. xxiv. 6 (97). 
Will, the human, not forced, C. iii. 1 
(21); ix. 1(46). 
and the decrees, C. iii. 1 (21) ; iv. 2 

(26). 
originally free, C. iv. 2 (26); ix. 2 

(46); L. 21 (131); S. 13(264). 
to spiritual good, lost bv the fall, 
C. vi. 4 (33): ix. 3 (46); L. 25 
(132); 192 (255). 



Will, renewed in conversion, C. ix. 4 

(47) ; x. i. (48) ; L. 67 (152) ; S. 31 

(267). 
only perfectly free to good in 

glory, C. ix. 5 (48). 
Withdrawal of motions, R. 15 (373). 
Witnesses, false, L. 145 (217); 77 

(273). 
power of Session over, G. ix. 6 

(292). 
names of, in specifications, D. 15 

(325). 
names of, for accused, D. 19 (326). 
citations for, D. 19(326). 
accused not to disclose names of, 

D. 19 (326). 
time allowed for appearance of, 

D. 21 (326). 
examination of, D. 23 (327). 
new, D. 23 (327). 
competent, D. 54, 55 (334). 
incompetent, D. 55 (334). 
credibility of, D. 56 (334). 
husband or wife as, D. 57 (334). 
charges proved by one, D. 58 

(334). 
presence of, during testimony, D 

59 (334). 
how to be examined, D. 60 (334). 
oath or affirmation of, D. 61. (334). 
questions to, record of, D. 62 (335). 
answers of, record of, D. 62 (335). 
commission to examine, D. 65 

(335). 
numbers of judicatory may be, D 

m (336). 
refusing to appear, D. 67 (386). 
contumacy of, D. 67 (336). 
of marriages, W. xii. 7 (364). 
Word of God, the, how made effect- 
ual to salvation, L. 155 (229); S. 

89 (274). 

to be read bv all, L. 156 (230). 
how to be read, L. 157 (230) ; S. 90 

(274). 
to be preached by ministers only, 

L. 158(231). 
how to he preached, L. 159 (232). 
how to be heard, L. 160 (233); S. 

90 (274). 

Works, Covenant of, C. vii. 2 (35). 

of supererogation, C. xvi. 4 (65). 
Works, good, C. xvi. (63). 
are the fruits and evidences of 

faith, C. xvi. 2 (64). 
use of, xvi. 2 (64). 
ability to do, wholly from the 

Spirit, C. xvi. 3 (65). 
good, not meritorious, C. xvi. 5 (65). 
accepted through Cnrist, C. xvi. 6 
(66). 
Worship, of religious, C. xxi. (82). 



INDEX. 



405 



Worship, only object of, C. ii. 2 (18) ; 

xxi. 2 (83) ; L. 104 (177) ; 179 (247) ; 

S. 46 (269). 
God prescribes the kind of, C. 

xxi. 1 (82); L. 108 (183); S. 

49-51 (269). 
parts of, C. xxi. 3 (84) ; xxi. 5 (85). 
not limited to a particular place. 

C. xxi. 6 (86). 
Directory for (347). 
public, preparation for, W. i. 3, 4 

(348). 
assembling for, W. i. 5 (348). 
behavior during, W. ii. 1, 2 (348). 
reading of Scriptures, W. iii. (349). 
public, singing, W. iv. (349). 
prayer, W. v. (350). 



Worship, preaching, W. vii. (353). 
design, W. vii. 4 (354). 
fast-days, W. xv. 6, 7 (368). 
thanksgiving-days, W. xv. 6, 8 

(369). 
secret, W. xvi. (369). 
duty, W. xvi. 1 (369). 
manner, W. xvi. 2 (369). 
advantages, W. xvi. 2 (370). 
closing services, It. 44 (377). 

See also Family Worship, Forms, 
Praise, Prayer, Preaching, 
Singing, Vacant Congrega- 
tions. 

YEAS AND NAYS, R. 26, 27 (375). 

[W. H. R.] 



THE END. 



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